DBIA Design-Build Fundamentals and Principles Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

What is the defining characteristic of design-build that distinguishes it from design-bid-build?

Accepted Answer

A single entity holds both design and construction contracts, providing single-source responsibility

Answer

Design-build always costs less

Answer

Design-build does not require a licensed architect

Answer

The owner has no involvement in the design process

Question 2

According to DBIA principles, which element is most critical to a successful design-build project?

Accepted Answer

Early and continuous collaboration between design and construction team members

Answer

Selecting the lowest-cost design-builder

Answer

Eliminating the owner's involvement after contract award

Answer

Using only fixed-price contracts

Question 3

What does 'single-source responsibility' mean in design-build delivery?

Accepted Answer

One entity is accountable for both the design adequacy and construction performance of the project

Answer

The owner must use only one funding source

Answer

Only one subcontractor is allowed on the project

Answer

The architect and contractor must be the same person

Question 4

How does design-build typically affect project delivery timelines compared to design-bid-build?

Accepted Answer

Design-build compresses schedules by overlapping design and construction phases

Answer

Design-build always takes longer due to added coordination

Answer

There is no difference in timeline between the methods

Answer

Design-build is faster only for projects under $1 million

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the design-builder's standard of care for design services?

Accepted Answer

The same professional standard of care applicable to design professionals in the applicable jurisdiction

Answer

Absolute perfection with zero defects

Answer

A warranty that the design will never need modification

Answer

Only compliance with minimum building code requirements

Question 6

What is the primary reason DBIA advocates for performance-based criteria rather than prescriptive specifications in design-build?

Accepted Answer

Performance criteria allow the design-builder to innovate and optimize solutions while meeting the owner's functional requirements

Answer

Prescriptive specifications are illegal in design-build

Answer

Performance criteria eliminate the need for quality inspections

Answer

It reduces the design-builder's liability