When people think about construction, they often picture cranes, cement mixers, and towering scaffolds. But long before those appear on-site, one crucial decision sets the direction of the project: choosing the right type of construction bidding method.
This choice determines how the Owner, designer, and contractor will work together, how risks are shared, and how the project’s cost, quality, and timeline will be managed. Simply put, selecting the right bidding method is like setting the foundation for the entire project—get it wrong, and problems will ripple through every stage.
Most Common Types of Construction Bidding Methods
DESIGN-BID-BUILD (DBB)
This is the traditional method where the project is divided into two phases:
- First, the designer completes the plans and specifications.
- Then, contractors bid based on the completed design.
Pros: Clear accountability between designer and contractor; competitive pricing due to open bidding.
Cons: Longer project duration since design and construction are sequential; potential conflicts between designer and builder.
DESIGN AND BUILD (D&B)
Here, one entity handles both design and construction. The Owner signs a single contract with a design-build firm that takes care of everything.
Pros: Faster delivery (design and construction can overlap); better collaboration and innovation.
Cons: Less design control for the Owner; potential risks if the design-builder prioritizes cost savings over quality.
Why Choosing the Right Method is Important?
Cost Certainty – Different methods influence how costs are set, controlled, and adjusted.
Time Efficiency – Fast-track projects benefit from DB or IPD, while DBB may suit projects with no urgency.
Risk Allocation – Owners must consider how much risk they are willing to carry or transfer to contractors.
Quality Assurance – Some projects require specialized expertise where selective or negotiated methods are better than lowest-cost approaches.
Stakeholder Relationships – The right method can foster collaboration instead of conflict.
Travel Plan
Imagine planning a big trip. The way you book and organize it reflects the different bidding methods:
Design-Build is like booking through a trusted travel package provider who handles flights, hotels, and tours in one go. It’s faster and simpler, but you rely heavily on their choices.
Design-Bid-Build is like planning every detail yourself—researching destinations, booking flights, and hotels separately. It gives you control, but it takes more time and coordination.
Final Thoughts
Every construction project is unique, with its own set of priorities—cost, time, quality, or collaboration. That’s why selecting the right bidding method isn’t a formality, but a strategic decision that influences the project’s success.
The Owner, guided by Construction Managers and consultants, should carefully evaluate which method best aligns with the project goals. After all, in construction, as in travel, the journey matters just as much as the destination.