GLOSSARY

Design Bid Build (DBB)

Design Bid Build (DBB) is a traditional project delivery method used in the construction industry, including the design and construction of parking facilities. This method follows a linear and sequential process, typically involving three main phases: design, procurement (bid), and construction. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how DBB is applied in the context of parking facility design and construction: Key Phases

  • Design Phase:
  • Initial Planning: The process begins with the owner identifying the need for a new parking facility and engaging a Prime Design Professional (PDP), often a parking consulting firm, to develop the design.
  • Design Development: The PDP creates detailed design documents, including architectural plans, structural specifications, and system layouts. These documents must be 100% complete before moving to the next phase.
  • Authority Review: The design documents are submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for review and approval. This step ensures that the design complies with local building codes and regulations.
  • Procurement (Bid) Phase:
  • Request for Proposals (RFP): Once the design is approved, the owner releases an RFP to solicit bids from contractors. This can be a public solicitation or a direct negotiation with selected contractors.
  • Bid Evaluation: Contractors review the design documents, submit their bids, and the owner evaluates these bids based on cost, qualifications, and other criteria. Public projects often require selecting the lowest bid, while private projects have more flexibility.
  • Contract Award: The owner enters into a contractual agreement with the selected contractor to build the parking facility.
  • Construction Phase:
  • Project Execution: The contractor begins construction based on the approved design documents. The PDP may continue to provide oversight and ensure that the construction adheres to the design specifications.
  • Quality Control: Regular inspections and quality control measures are implemented to ensure that the construction meets the required standards.
  • Completion and Handover: Once construction is complete, the facility is inspected, and any deficiencies are addressed. The completed parking facility is then handed over to the owner for operation. Advantages of DBB
  • Clear Separation of Phases: The linear process ensures that each phase is completed before the next begins, providing clear milestones and reducing the risk of overlapping issues.
  • Competitive Bidding: The procurement phase allows for competitive bidding, which can result in lower initial construction costs.
  • Owner Control: The owner has direct contracts with both the designer and the contractor, allowing for clear communication and control over the project. Disadvantages of DBB
  • Longer Project Duration: The sequential nature of DBB can result in a longer overall project timeline compared to other delivery methods.
  • Limited Contractor Input: Contractors are not involved during the design phase, which can lead to requests for information (RFIs) and change orders during construction, potentially increasing costs and causing delays.
  • Potential for Low-Quality Work: Selecting the lowest bid can sometimes result in lower-quality work if the contractor cuts corners to meet budget constraints.

Conclusion

. Design Bid Build (DBB) is a well-established project delivery method that provides a structured and transparent approach to parking facility design and construction. By following a linear process of design, procurement, and construction, DBB ensures clear milestones and competitive bidding. However, it also has limitations, such as longer project durations and limited contractor input during the design phase. Understanding these factors helps owners and project teams make informed decisions when selecting the appropriate delivery method for their parking facility projects.