The traditional Design-Bid-Build delivery process is under considerable stress this year as materials shortages and cost spikes are upending usual practices, according to a new report from JLL.
Delays are “pretty much universal,” a JLL executive says. “Volatility around materials is hitting developer’s wallets at a higher rate than initially anticipated earlier this year,” according to the report.
Customarily, materials purchasing was the last step in the process, but building teams have had to adjust to the new environment by purchasing much sooner. Project managers are involved early in the design phase, and once they have a general idea of specs, they place orders for materials.
Having a cohesive team of designers, architects, contractors, and market researchers is more critical than ever for project success—even on smaller projects. Such an assemblage working in concert can account for fluctuating materials costs and establish realistic timelines to execute the project while minimizing costs and maximizing efficiency.
Related Stories
| Mar 5, 2012
Tishman constructing new courthouse in Philadelphia
Construction is underway for the Pennsylvania Department of General Services’ 510,000-sf facility.
| Mar 5, 2012
Perkins Eastman pegs O’Donnell to lead K-12 practice
O’Donnell will continue the leadership and tradition of creative design established by firm Chairman and CEO Bradford Perkins FAIA, MRAIC, AICP in leading this market sector across the firm’s 13 offices domestically and internationally.
| Mar 5, 2012
Moody+Nolan designs sustainable fire station in Cincinnati
Cincinnati fire station achieves LEED Gold certification.
| Mar 5, 2012
Gilbane Building Co. wins top honors at ASA Houston awards ceremony
Gilbane was also named General Contractor of the Year for the seventh time in 11 years and won the inaugural Safety Program of the Year award.
| Mar 5, 2012
Franklin Institute in Philadelphia selects Skanska to construct new pavilion
The building has been designed by SaylorGregg Architects and will apply for LEED Silver certification.
| Mar 2, 2012
By the Numbers
66 skyscrapers to built in China over six years; 1,000 questions in the Modern Architecture game; 21,000 new jobs.
| Mar 1, 2012
Intelligent construction photography, not just pretty pictures
Our expert tells how to organize construction progress photos so you don’t lose track of all the valuable information they contain.
| Mar 1, 2012
AIA: A clear difference, new developments in load-bearing glass
Earn 1.0 AIA/CES learning units by studying this article and successfully completing the online exam.
| Mar 1, 2012
8 tips for architects to consider before LED installation
Lighting experts offer Building Team members critical information to consider before upgrading lighting systems to LEDs.
| Mar 1, 2012
Reconstruction Awards: Reinvesting in a neighborhood’s future
The reconstruction of a near-century-old derelict public works facility in Minneapolis earns LEED Platinum—and the hearts and minds of the neighboring community.
