John and others involved with Design-Build teams:
I have done some large Design-Build projects in my lifetime. They have all worked out very well.
One of the reasons: I have allowed the Design-Build relationship to affect my normal detailed approach to CDs one bit. My counsel is that you continue to do what you know is an excellent job of creating detailed documents, including specifications, building sections, schedules, wall sections, elevations, details and that you provide MORE than your normal level of CA (Construction Administration). The reason:
If you think that having a D-B relationship means you can slack off on your normal good job, that is just not the case. You actually need to be a better job than you typically do, because your details and specs will be scrutinized by the entire team, multiple times and your level of coordination will be more, not less than normal. You will be called out to the jobsite more often, because you are part of the team and you will be expected to solve problems and also to second-guess what you have done, when your teammate Contractor points out certain things and suggests simpler ways of doing things. You will learn from them and they from you. But do not think this implies anything less than your best efforts. To do so not only can make trouble for you regarding how your teammates view your work, but how your State board evaluated what you have done, should anyone complain to them. Subsequently, your Architect-peers could be the judge of what you have done. Always do it well. You will sleep better.
And enjoy working side by side with builders. It is an enjoyable relationship that can lead to additional projects, as long as you mutually respect each other and work together to solve issues and carry out the Client's objectives.
I wish you well in your D-B endeavors.
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Rand Soellner
Architect/Owner/Principal
Home Architects
Cashiers NC
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Original Message:
Sent: 11-30-2013 06:32
From: John Biggs
Subject: Design Build Documents Content
This message has been cross posted to the following Discussion Forums: Practice Management Member Conversations and Construction Contract Administration .
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I have a question about any AIA or industry guidelines or references for construction drawings/document content for design-build versus standard or bid-build documents. What is generally-accepted level of documentation/detailing for design-build drawings compared with level of documentation/detailing for bid-build? Any AIA (or other industry organizations) memos or guidelines on the subject?
I have found some references or discussions describing design-build documents as performance documents.... any references or guidelines showing examples of performance drawings or level of detail?
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John Biggs AIA
Architect
LJA Architechts & Engineers
Williston ND
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