Design, build, manage contractor
In a typical design and build (D&B) procurement, the main contractor is appointed to design and construct the works (as opposed to a traditional contract, where the client appoints consultants to design the development and then a contractor is appointed to construct the works).
In a design, build and manage contract (DBM), the contractor – in addition to shouldering the risks of design and construction – also manages the construction process, sometimes providing operational services over and above building maintenance, such as supplying operational staff and cleaning.
The DBM may also appoint (and contracting with) different works contractors to see the completion of various parts of the project. The contractor therefore is also a project manager.
The client (or their representative) will generally appoint the DBM contractor early-on in the design process so that their experience can be used to improve the cost and buildability of proposals as they develop, as well as to advise on packaging and the risks of interfaces.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Approved contractor.
- CIS contractors and CIS sub-contractors.
- Commercial manager.
- Construction contract.
- Construction manager.
- Contractor's working schedule.
- Design and manage procurement route.
- Due diligence when selecting contractors or subcontractors.
- Management contractor.
- Principal contractor.
- Procurement route.
- Work package contractor.
- Works contractor.
Featured articles and news
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
AI and automation in 3D modelling and spatial design
Can almost half of design development tasks be automated?
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
The maintenance challenge of tenements.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.
Shortlist for the 2025 Roofscape Design Awards
Talent and innovation showcase announcement from the trussed rafter industry.
OpenUSD possibilities: Look before you leap
Being ready for the OpenUSD solutions set to transform architecture and design.
Global Asbestos Awareness Week 2025
Highlighting the continuing threat to trades persons.
Retrofit of Buildings, a CIOB Technical Publication
Now available in Arabic and Chinese as well as English.