Your Most Important Construction Decision Happens Before the Drawings Begin

This episode of On the Level explores why selecting the right construction contract delivery method early in project planning is the single most critical decision for project success.

Delivery Methods Analyzed:

• Single-Prime General Contractor (Lump-Sum Bid): Traditional method providing fixed upfront pricing, though lacking early builder input and increasing the risk of change orders and design disputes.
• Design-Build: Combines design and construction under a single contract for faster delivery and single-point accountability, though owners trade away direct control over detailed design choices.
• Construction Manager as Builder (CM Builder): Integrates the contractor into the early design phase to provide continuous cost estimating, drawing coordination, risk reduction, and transparent subcontractor selection.