Design-Bid-Build vs. Design-Build: What’s the Difference?

At G3 Quality, we work with multiple partners and clients on a variety of projects at once. We know firsthand that every project is unique and must be approached in its own way. When it comes to different types of project delivery methods, there are always benefits to each. 

In this blog, we discuss the benefits of design-bid-build and design-build projects, as well as specific projects we have been involved with for each. 

Design-Bid-Build

Design-bid-build is typically the most traditional project method in the construction industry. During this delivery method, the owner will either develop the project including design, preparing plans and specifications, or contract separately with an independent designer. The designer is expected to complete the design documents, and the project owner then solicits fixed price bids from contractors to complete this work.  

While it may seem like much of the collaborative efforts between the designer and the contractor are lost, it’s still a popular method for many owners. This type of project can stir competitiveness among contractors bidding for the work, creating a possibility of lower total construction costs. 

One of the many design-bid-build projects that the G3 Quality team has contributed to includes hundreds of Caltrans projects including the 1.9 billion dollar I-5 South widening program between the Orange County line and I-605. G3 Quality is currently providing quality management, inspection, and materials testing services on multiple contracts in this program including the final contract, Valley View Avenue Interchange.

Design-Build

Unlike design-bid-build, owners of design-build projects will hire a single entity to perform the design and construction under a single contract. Some portions may be subcontracted to other companies under the design-build team, but ultimately, there is greater collaboration between the designer and contractor throughout these types of projects. Design-build projects are known to be less risky for the owner than design-bid-build, for there is far less responsibility of the owner, allowing them to focus on other tasks. With the greater team effort between the designer and contractors, projects can be completed in a timely manner. 

G3 Quality has contributed to many design-build projects, including the Los Cerritos Stormwater Capture Facility – one of the largest and most important environmental infrastructure projects under construction in Los Angeles County. We are also currently contributing to 3 of Southern Californias largest design-build programs valued at over 3 billion. Our team is providing quality management, materials testing, and inspection services.

Partner With Us

At G3 Quality, we are industry leaders who are always embracing change and excellence. We are an elite team of engineers and professionals who provide world-class quality management, pavement engineering, materials design, construction inspection, and testing on infrastructure projects throughout California and the western United States. 

To learn more about how G3 Quality can contribute knowledge, expertise, consulting, and professional services to your project, contact us.