DBIA Owner Engagement Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

What is the most important early decision an owner makes in design-build delivery?

Accepted Answer

Defining clear performance criteria and project requirements that communicate the owner's vision while allowing room to innovate

Answer

Selecting the lowest-cost contractor

Answer

Choosing the project color scheme

Answer

Deciding on construction equipment

Question 2

How should an owner structure their internal team for a design-build project?

Accepted Answer

An empowered representative with decision-making authority, supported by technical advisors and stakeholder representatives

Answer

No internal team is needed

Answer

Only the attorney needs to be involved

Answer

The same DBB team structure works equally well

Question 3

What is the owner's role during the design phase of a design-build project?

Accepted Answer

Review design at defined milestones for criteria compliance, provide timely decisions, and participate as a collaborative partner

Answer

The owner has no role once the design-builder is selected

Answer

The owner directs every design decision

Answer

The owner's role is limited to making payments

Question 4

How should owners prepare for their first design-build project?

Accepted Answer

Educate themselves on principles, engage experienced advisors, develop appropriate procurement documents, and establish internal processes for the different pace

Answer

No preparation needed

Answer

Attend a single information session

Answer

Only the procurement department needs preparation

Question 5

What is the concept of 'over-the-shoulder' review in design-build?

Accepted Answer

A collaborative review where the owner monitors design development in real-time rather than through formal submit-review-return cycles

Answer

Physical surveillance of employees

Answer

A security protocol for documents

Answer

A review conducted only at completion

Question 6

How should owners handle scope changes during a design-build project?

Accepted Answer

Use the formal change management process, understanding cost and schedule impacts before approving

Answer

Scope changes are not permitted

Answer

All scope changes are free with a fixed price

Answer

The design-builder should absorb all changes at no cost