In today’s world of commercial construction, clients want faster, smarter, and more cost-effective projects. That’s why the Design-Build construction method is becoming more popular every year. This approach combines the design and construction parts of a project into one contract, with a single team working together from start to finish. For clients, that means fewer headaches, better communication, and fewer budget surprises.
At MetroTech Electric, we know how powerful design-build is, especially for design-build electrical contracting and electrical prefabrication solutions. Let’s break down why this method is taking off and why it may be the right choice for your next project.
How Does the Design-Build Construction Method Work?
In traditional construction, the client hires an architect or engineer to design a project. Then, that design is sent out for bids to contractors who build it. That means two separate contracts — one for design, one for construction — and lots of back-and-forth between different parties.
With design-build, you only have one contract and one team. This team handles both the design and the build. Everyone works together, from the first sketch to the final installation. According to the Design-Build Institute of America, design-build projects are finished 102 percent faster than traditional design-bid-build projects (DBIA).
Why Is Design-Build Getting So Popular?
Clients, general contractors, and trade partners all see big benefits with design-build. Here’s why it’s growing in popularity:
- Speed: With everyone working together, projects move faster because there’s no waiting for multiple contracts and separate approvals.
- Cost Control: Early collaboration helps spot budget issues before they get out of hand.
- Better Communication: One team means everyone is on the same page.
- Fewer Disputes: Fewer finger-pointing arguments, because there is shared responsibility.
- Flexibility: Changes are handled smoothly because the team is working side by side.
At MetroTech Electric, we’ve seen these benefits firsthand with our integrated design-build services in Oklahoma. When you combine design and construction into one team, you build trust and save time.
How Does Design-Build Help Electrical Contractors?
For electrical contractors, the design-build method is a huge advantage. We get involved earlier in the project, making sure electrical systems are planned efficiently. That includes using electrical prefabrication solutions, where parts of the electrical system are built off-site and brought in ready to install. Prefabrication in commercial construction saves labor, reduces waste, and improves safety.
Design-build also connects with design-assist in electrical construction. With design-assist, electrical experts like MetroTech Electric work alongside the design team to catch challenges early. That teamwork helps reduce change orders, which cost time and money.
Why Should You Choose Design-Build?
If you want your commercial construction project to run smoother, faster, and with fewer surprises, design-build is worth a close look. With a single point of accountability and faster delivery of the finished project, things generally move much smoother. Also, there is improved teamwork and fewer disputes, as well as opportunities for more prefabrication and less jobsite waste with a design-build project.
These benefits mean design-build is expected to keep growing. In fact, according to DBIA, nearly half (47 percent) of all construction spending in the U.S. may use design-build by 2026 (DBIA). That’s a clear sign of confidence in the model.
At MetroTech Electric, our integrated design-build services in Oklahoma give you the experience and trust you need to make the most of this approach. Whether you’re planning a new building or updating an existing one, working with a design-build electrical contractor makes a major difference in your results.
FAQs about Design-Build Construction Method
What is design-build in construction?
Design-build means one contract covers both the design and the construction of a project, with a single team managing the whole job.
What is design-assist in electrical construction?
Design-assist brings in skilled trade partners, like electrical contractors, early in the design process to help spot and solve issues before construction starts.
How does prefabrication help electrical projects?
Prefabrication in commercial construction helps by building parts of the electrical system off-site, making installation faster, safer, and cheaper.
Is design-build more expensive?
No — it often saves money by reducing delays, change orders, and conflicts between designers and builders.
How do I get started with design-build?
Reach out to MetroTech Electric to learn how our design-build electrical contracting services support your next project.
