Building the Future with Brodeur Construction

Stages of a “Design-Bid Build” Construct Project

The Design-Bid-Build construction method is among the most widely used approaches in the industry, as it provides clients with valuable feedback regarding the project. This model comprises seven distinct steps. Below is an outline of the process:

Step 1: Design

The design phase represents a crucial step in any construction project, establishing the groundwork for the entire build. Throughout this phase, the project team collaborates to formulate comprehensive plans and specifications that will direct the construction process. The primary activities involved in the design phase encompass:

- Architectural and Engineering Design: Architects and engineers collaborate to produce detailed drawings and specifications that delineate the project’s structural, mechanical, and electrical elements. This phase includes conceptual design, schematic design, design development, and the creation of construction documentation.

- Development of Construction Documents: After the design is finalized, the project team prepares construction documents, which consist of blueprints, specifications, and various technical documents. These documents act as a reference for contractors during the construction phase.

- Value Engineering: Value engineering is a methodical approach aimed at enhancing the value of a project by examining its functions and minimizing costs. During the design phase, value engineering assists in pinpointing opportunities to accomplish project objectives more effectively.

Step 2: Pre-Construction

In the Design-Bid-Build model, the following steps are undertaken during the pre-construction phase:

- Obtain budget approval.

- Reach out to city officials, local representatives, and private sector personnel to inform them.

- Make any necessary plans or modifications to the construction site.

- Align schedules with the surrounding community and private firms to reduce any disruptions.

- Perform an inventory of equipment to determine any requirements.
 

Upon completion of this process, the client makes final decisions and conducts last-minute checks. Once these steps are finalized, the client issues a Notice-To-Proceed for contractors to commence the next phase.

Step 3: Procurement

During the Procurement phase, Brodeur Construction will collaborate with all contractors to establish a baseline schedule aimed at ensuring the timely completion of the project phases. The responsibilities of certain contractors are directly influenced by the actions of others, necessitating a thorough planning of the entire project scope and its associated steps. This phase also serves as an opportunity to assign various team roles for the project, which include managers, team leads, and additional positions.

Furthermore, in the Procurement phase, we identify any materials that have significant lead times which may potentially hinder the project's progress. For instance, items such as bridge beams, steel beams, and plumbing components may require extended delivery periods, prompting us to monitor these closely.
 

Step 4: Construction 

The construction process marks the transition of design into reality. To ensure the project remains on schedule, we will arrange review meetings with project stakeholders from both organizations on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis. During these meetings, we will assess the progress made thus far and plan for future project objectives. Additionally, we will conduct quality control checks and inspections to verify that design standards are upheld, along with implementing safety management measures to guarantee site readiness.

The construction activities encompass:

- Mobilization of Resources: This involves coordinating logistics (such as equipment transportation), establishing temporary site facilities, securing necessary permits and clearances, and ensuring alignment among all contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers.

- Site Preparation and Foundation Work: The site must be leveled and cleared of all debris. Following this, excavation can proceed for underground structures and foundations. Once soil stabilization is confirmed, the foundation can be established.

- Structural Construction: We will proceed with the construction of the framework, floors, roofs, exterior walls, staircases, elevator shafts, and any other necessary components.

- Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Installation: All critical building systems will be integrated. This includes mechanical systems (such as HVAC), electrical systems (including lighting fixtures and power outlets), plumbing systems (like water supply lines and drainage systems), and fire protection systems.

- Finishes: The final construction steps for both interior and exterior elements—from drywall installation and fixtures like cabinets to the application of final coatings—will be completed.

Step 5: Commissioning

Upon completion of construction, we proceed to the Commissioning phase, during which we provide training to all individuals who will utilize the new site regarding its features. For instance, if we have constructed a new restaurant, we would organize a commissioning meeting for the employees working in the kitchen space as well as the front of house.

We perform two categories of commissioning: vertical and horizontal commissioning. Vertical commissioning involves the state legislature granting a certificate of occupancy, which permits the client to operate the building. Horizontal commissioning encompasses various miscellaneous items that are not included in vertical commissioning.
 

Step 6: Owner Occupancy

In this stage, we transfer all building management responsibilities to the client to facilitate their move into the new building. Essential activities that contribute to a seamless transition comprise: 

- Final Inspections and Approvals: This encompasses compliance with building codes, thorough system testing, and obtaining any required certificates of occupancy. 

- Handover Documentation: This entails providing "as-built" drawings, operation and maintenance manuals, and transferring any necessary warranties or guarantees (such as those for materials, equipment, workmanship, etc.) to the owner.

Step 7: Project Closure

The project closure phase involves an internal assessment of our overall project effectiveness. We conduct meetings with our team leaders, managers, and contractors to pinpoint areas for enhancement. Additionally, we emphasize the strengths of the project that we intend to apply in future endeavors.

Work With Brodeur Construction, Today!

At Brodeur Construction, we possess extensive experience in utilizing all three models based on what best suits the client. Regardless of the construction method, we make every effort to guarantee that we operate as efficiently as possible. Are you interested in collaborating with us on your upcoming project? Reach out to us so we can talk about your project objectives!