Choosing a project delivery method is one of the most consequential decisions an owner makes — it affects timeline, budget certainty, risk allocation, and the quality of collaboration between design and construction teams.
Traditional Design-Bid-Build
In the traditional model, the owner contracts separately with a designer and a general contractor. Construction bidding occurs only after design documents are substantially complete. This approach offers design independence but often introduces gaps between design intent and field execution.
Design-Build Delivery
Design-build unifies design and construction under a single contract. The design-builder assumes responsibility for both phases, enabling overlapping work, real-time cost feedback, and faster mobilization. Industry data shows design-build projects are delivered roughly 33% faster on average.
When to Choose Each
- Choose design-build when speed, budget certainty, and single-source accountability are priorities.
- Choose traditional delivery when the owner requires a specific architect relationship or highly prescriptive public procurement rules apply.
- Consider progressive design-build for large, complex projects where scope evolves during early design phases.
At HartmannForge, we help owners evaluate delivery options during preconstruction — aligning method selection with project goals before significant capital is committed.