Design-Bid-Build vs. Design-Build
Two Approaches: Design-Bid-Build and Design-Build
Design-Bid-Build (a.k.a. Competitive Bids)
The standard process when constructing or renovating a building is to hire an architect, approve the plans, set it out for competitive bid, choose a general contractor, who hires sub-contractors, who are also bidding competitively. The architect represents the owner to the general contractor to see that the project is built to specifications. While the contractors can bid as low as they dare, they must construct it to the specifications and building codes.
Design-Build
In design-build, the same company that designs the project must also construct it. While the cost of the project is outlined on the front end, there is no competitive bidding process, per se. Often the Design-Build firm is chosen by reputation and/or for its special knowledge and skill for a particular application, especially when its outside the purview of an architect.
Design-Bid-Build Pros and Cons
Pros
A third-party designs the system without bias toward a specific manufacturer or installer.
The installation company assumes much of the risk of cost overruns due to delays, material costs, and sub-contractor/labor issues.
Cons
Longer timeline. The design process must start and end before it can be let it for bid.
Lack of oversight. The third-party designer is often not involved in the construction process, although they often come in at the end to make sure the system meets specifications.
Miscommunication. The installer relies on the design and infrequently, if ever, consults with the customer.
Lack of flexibility. Changes (change orders) are typically very expensive. Some companies bid low and make their profit on change orders.
Sloppy/Incomplete design. When the installer has to make changes to due sloppy design, the customer pays for it. In building renovations, If the designer doesn’t make the effort to consider the installation process, issues will arise with the installation. They must consider spaces, conduits, wall chases, power, hang points, etc. The customer frequently has no idea that there are issues with the design until the project is far down the road and designer has already been paid for everything but the inspection.
Design-Build Pros and Cons
Pros
Shorter timelines from design to construction
Reduced risks from miscommunication
High level of collaboration and communication
Agility—Easier to adjust and tailor the project to changing needs. a.k.a. Scope Creep*
Generally better customer satisfaction
Cons
Hard to price shop because most Design-Build firms will only give a general estimate on the front end.
What is a Systems Integrator?
A Systems Integrator is a Design-Build company that builds audio, video, and lighting systems by designing engineered solutions through combining hardware, software, and networking products from multiple vendors.
AVL systems integration is both an engineering and management activity. It combines the engineering analysis and design along project management. A Systems Integrator can combine and simplify these activities for the customer.
What are the benefits to using a Systems Integrator?
Experience – SI firms have experience with a variety of systems, applications, and customers with a wide range of expectations.
Knowledge – SI people are essentially information brokers with a variety of experience and unique points of view. They have training, access to a wide variety of vendors, industry relationships, and years of experience in best practices.
Peer review – Review by other engineers can make the difference between a good system and a great system.
Manufacturer vetting – Performance is often similar, but support can vary.
Vendor management – SI firms have the time to invest in finding best sources and arrange timely deliveries.
Documentation—block diagrams, wiring diagrams, equipment layouts, hang points, power requirements, conduit requirements, etc.
Project Management
– Coordinating design with customer expectations
– Determining equipment options and configurations
– Coordinating documentation
– Arranging time of deliveries
– Coordinating installers, engineers, trainers
– Coordination with architects, GCs, electricians, and other trades
Why do Systems Integrators want to work directly for the owner?
Owners are more satisfied with the result when communicating and collaborating directly with the SI.
Architects and GCs often poorly communicates needs/desires of the owner.
Architects and GCs often do not understand AVL systems.
Systems Integration Process
1. Concept
Identify Stakeholders
Mission/Vision
Production Values
Operational/Functional Objectives
Future Expansion/Upgrades
2. Schematic (Pre-engineering)
Project Scope
Conceptual Engineering Plans
Identify Equipment
Preliminary Budgets
3. Design Development
Alignment with Customer Expectations
Coordination/review with manufacturers, engineers, architects
First Stage Engineering Plans
Final Budgets
Develop Timeline
Construction Documents
4. Build-Out
Ordering Equipment, Cable, etc.
Construction Coordination
Pulling Cable
Installing Equipment
5. Commissioning
Troubleshooting
Testing
Configuration
6. Training
Best practices
Orientation
First Use
Schedule follow up – Training is multi-layered.
