DBIA Progressive Design-Build Process Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

What distinguishes progressive design-build (PDB) from traditional design-build?

Accepted Answer

In PDB the design-builder is selected primarily on qualifications before design begins, then collaboratively develops the design and negotiates a price with the owner

Answer

PDB is always cheaper than traditional design-build

Answer

PDB does not require licensed design professionals

Answer

PDB skips the construction phase entirely

Question 2

What is 'open-book pricing' in progressive design-build?

Accepted Answer

A transparent cost estimation process where the design-builder shares all cost details with the owner during price negotiation

Answer

Publishing the final project cost publicly

Answer

Allowing the public to bid on project components

Answer

A pricing method where the design-builder sets the price unilaterally

Question 3

What happens if the owner and design-builder cannot agree on a GMP during the PDB validation phase?

Accepted Answer

The owner can terminate the design-builder's contract, compensate them for work performed, and use the developed design to select a new design-builder

Answer

The project is automatically cancelled

Answer

The design-builder can set the price unilaterally

Answer

The project must convert to design-bid-build

Question 4

Why is progressive design-build particularly suited for water and wastewater infrastructure projects?

Accepted Answer

These projects involve complex existing conditions, regulatory requirements, and operational constraints that benefit from early design-builder involvement

Answer

Water projects are always simple enough for any delivery method

Answer

Federal law requires PDB for all water projects

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Water projects do not require environmental permits

Question 5

What role does the 'validation period' serve in progressive design-build?

Accepted Answer

It is the collaborative phase where the design-builder investigates conditions, develops design, refines costs, and both parties validate feasibility within budget and schedule

Answer

It validates the owner's financing

Answer

It is a waiting period required by building codes

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It only validates insurance coverage

Question 6

How does progressive design-build handle early construction activities before the GMP is finalized?

Accepted Answer

The contract can authorize limited early work packages at negotiated prices while design and GMP negotiation continue

Answer

No construction can begin until the GMP is set

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The design-builder performs construction at their own risk

Answer

Early construction is prohibited in progressive design-build