TABLE OF CONTENTS There has been much debate within the construction industry as to whether the use of a construction manager (CM) adds value to the design-build delivery process. The answers to this question vary with the respondent. Examples are
Design-builders. Design-Builders, particularly when they are directly selected by their clients and help in the programming of the project, often contend that a CM is an unnecessary project cost. They submit that the CM, as it seeks to justify its fees and preserve its professional standing, may engage in turf protection that will interfere with (1) the design-builder s single point of responsibility for performance of the work and (2) the close and direct partnering relationship between the owner and design-builder.
A/Es. Design professionals who assist in developing the owner s design-build program and the preliminary design often feel that an independent CM will intrude into their professional relationship with the owner, marginalize their role on the project, and reduce their potential for fees. These design professionals contend that there should only be one prime consultant to the owner on a design-build project and that they should be the one to perform any needed CM services.
Construction managers. Those CMs who are not design professionals believe that the owner still needs an independent professional to help manage certain areas of the project, regardless of whether the owner s design professional or design-builder will be involved. They claim that their unique management skills can improve the project s success and ensure that the...
