In a design-build project, when a change is introduced during schematic design that could significantly impact time and budget, who should typically lead the constructability analysis?

In a design-build project, when a change is introduced during schematic design that could significantly impact time and budget, who should typically lead the constructability analysis?

• A. The design team
• B. The owner
• C. Construction manager
• D. The contractor

Answer: (C)

In design-build, the party with construction knowledge and responsibility for aligning design with schedule and budget should lead constructability reviews, especially when changes in schematic design could have major time and cost impacts. The construction manager acts as the owner’s representative for delivery, bringing practical expertise in sequencing, methods, material availability, and procurement. This enables a thorough assessment of how the proposed change can be built, what alternatives exist, and how to adjust the design to stay on track with the project timeline and budget. The goal is to catch constructability issues early and guide design adjustments that are feasible and cost-effective, rather than letting design decisions proceed in a vacuum. The owner and design team contribute input, but leadership for this analysis rests with the construction manager to ensure the project remains achievable within the given constraints. The contractor’s input is important, but in this setup the CM coordinates the review to balance constructability with time and cost objectives across the design-build team.

In design-build, the party with construction knowledge and responsibility for aligning design with schedule and budget should lead constructability reviews, especially when changes in schematic design could have major time and cost impacts. The construction manager acts as the owner’s representative for delivery, bringing practical expertise in sequencing, methods, material availability, and procurement. This enables a thorough assessment of how the proposed change can be built, what alternatives exist, and how to adjust the design to stay on track with the project timeline and budget. The goal is to catch constructability issues early and guide design adjustments that are feasible and cost-effective, rather than letting design decisions proceed in a vacuum. The owner and design team contribute input, but leadership for this analysis rests with the construction manager to ensure the project remains achievable within the given constraints. The contractor’s input is important, but in this setup the CM coordinates the review to balance constructability with time and cost objectives across the design-build team.