Progressive Design-build Delivery Method: Assessment of Project Performance

ABSTRACT As the progressive design-build (PDB) delivery method is gained traction in the construction industry, owners are interested to understand the factors that govern performance in such projects. This study examined the impact of variables such as time of involvement, team selection, and team behavior on project performance for projects delivered using the PDB method. To achieve our goal, the research team first compiled a database of 19 completed PDB projects and analyzed the data using Mann–Whitney U test. The significant results of the statistical analysis provided a list of best practices owners can follow to increase their chances of achieving success in PDB projects. Within academia, this study contributes an early performance database for assessing PDB projects. Within industry, practitioners will benefit from the results, which identify best practices for maximizing success in PDB projects and provide guidelines for using PDB as a delivery method, based on owner and project characteristics.