Be Smarter, Faster
“Be smarter, faster.” I heard this phrase during a recent team meeting and reflected on how alternative delivery methods are implemented collaboratively. Another phrase that comes to mind is, two heads are better than one. Alternative delivery methods sit at the intersection of these ideas. In other words, the collaborative interaction between the designer and contractor during the preconstruction phase helps us work smarter and faster.
This thought prompted me to compare various alternative delivery methods to the traditional design-bid-build (DBB) approach. Most alternative delivery methods—such as CMAR, CM/GC, PD-B, and D-B—incorporate early contractor involvement. In contrast, DBB projects lack the benefit of having a contractor provide constructability reviews, verify quantity takeoffs, and perform other preconstruction activities that enhance project design. Including the contractor in the design phase brings valuable insights to the design team; once again, two heads are better than one.
In a recent conversation, a client shared that he has been focusing on delivering major projects using the CM/GC delivery method over the past several years. He added that he couldn’t imagine returning to traditional DBB projects without incorporating at least some CM/GC practices, such as collaboratively developing risk registers and brainstorming potential innovations as a team. Over the past decade, many alternative delivery practices have transformed how we deliver projects, allowing us to become smarter and faster in the process.
While alternative delivery methods may not be suitable for every project, they are an excellent choice for complex projects or those with significant schedule or budget constraints. Engaging contractors during the design phase through alternative delivery methods ultimately provides greater value by delivering cost and time savings for our clients.
Contact Dan Bender at (702) 523-2354 to learn which alternative delivery methods suit your projects.
A Comparative Analysis of Progressive Design-Build and CM/GC Delivery Methods
Emergency repair contracts in the transportation industry are critical for addressing unforeseen damage to infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and rail systems. The urgency of these repairs necessitates efficient contract delivery methods to minimize downtime, ensure safety, and restore functionality. The two most used methods are Progressive Design-Build (PD-B) and Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC).
Progressive Design-Build (PD-B) is a collaborative approach where the owner works with a single entity, combining design and construction services. In emergency scenarios, PD-B’s streamlined decision-making and integration can accelerate timelines. The process begins with the design-builder developing a preliminary design, then refining it while construction may proceed concurrently on critical elements. This reduces delays and fosters innovation. However, its reliance on the design-builder's expertise can limit owner control over certain decisions and requires a high level of trust and clear communication.
Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) involves the owner contracting with a construction manager during the design phase, who later becomes the general contractor. This allows the owner to retain more control over design while benefiting from early contractor input to optimize constructability and cost-efficiency. In emergency repairs, CM/GC can effectively align design and construction efforts to meet urgent needs. However, the method can introduce complexity, as the separation between design and construction responsibilities may slow the project compared to PD-B.
Both methods share pros and cons relative to emergency repairs. PD-B is often faster and better suited for situations where time is paramount, leveraging its unified team structure. CM/GC, on the other hand, provides greater design flexibility and cost transparency but may struggle to match PD-B’s pace in emergencies. Ultimately, the choice depends on the specific project requirements, available resources, and the owner's priorities regarding speed, control, and risk management. Balancing these factors ensures the selected approach aligns with the critical demands of emergency transportation infrastructure repair.
Due to known issues with similarly constructed steel bridges across the country, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) proactively performed inspections on the two US 50 bridges that cross the Blue Mesa Reservoir in Gunnison County. Findings from these inspections indicated defects that posed safety hazards. CDOT quickly assembled a construction team, closed both bridges shortly thereafter, and constructed detours to accommodate traffic while repairs were underway.
CDOT utilized the CM/GC delivery method for the US 50 over Blue Mesa Reservoir Emergency Project. Due to the emergency nature of the project, a full project scope was not defined at the time of contracting. As the independent cost estimator, IC&E provided detailed cost estimates for five project milestones. Additionally, IC&E played an active role in construction scheduling, risk management, and the development of project innovations.
The CM/GC delivery method enabled CDOT, IC&E, and the contractor to collaborate effectively on this unique project. The project team estimated, negotiated, and agreed on five project milestone estimates between May and September 2024. Thanks to the team's quick action, CDOT was able to partially reopen one bridge to traffic before the July 4th holiday. Both bridges are projected to be fully reopened in December 2024.
In total, construction crews will complete over 120,000 manhours to set up and maintain detours and rehabilitate the two bridges. Due to the remote location and extreme winter weather conditions, crews have been working double shifts to achieve substantial completion by mid-December.
We’re proud to spotlight Erik Golubjatnikov, a vital member of the IC&E team whose leadership, expertise, and mentorship drive remarkable outcomes for our clients. With decades of experience in construction and project management, Erik has built a reputation for solving complex challenges, fostering collaboration, and delivering exceptional results.
Erik Golubjatnikov, Senior Cost Estimator
Erik’s passion for mentorship is one of his most defining qualities. Through an SBA mentorship program, he guided a minority contractor in scaling their business from $500K to over $4M in annual revenue, demonstrating his ability to empower others to succeed. This same dedication fuels his approach to client partnerships, where Erik’s strategic thinking and commitment to understanding every project’s unique needs result in thoughtful, accurate planning that builds trust and mitigates risk.
Since joining IC&E, Erik has brought not only technical expertise but also a philosophy rooted in fairness, adaptability, and a relentless focus on quality. His advice to others— “don’t take shortcuts”—drives his team to deliver solutions that are as reliable as they are innovative.
Beyond work, Erik is an adventurer at heart. A former competitive skier, sailor, and kayaker, he now enjoys Arizona’s sunshine with his wife Barbie, their two Yorkies, and a passion for life’s next adventure.
Erik embodies IC&E’s values of collaboration, innovation, and growth. His influence as a mentor, leader, and problem-solver continues to leave a lasting impact on our team and our clients. Congratulations on this well-deserved spotlight, Erik—we’re excited to see your leadership continue to shape IC&E’s success!
Alternative Delivery Consulting Services (PDB, CMGC, CMAR, DB, P3)
Alternative Delivery Processes Training
Independent Cost Estimating (Production-Based Cost Estimating)
Critical Path Scheduling Using Primavera P6
Constructability Reviews
Risk Management/Mitigation
Innovation in Construction Techniques
Negotiation
Change Order Reviews
We love what we do! We have a passion for finding creative approaches to construction. We are constantly looking for innovative construction techniques to add value to the projects we are working on. Our team has found ways to reduce schedule and/or construction costs on every project we have worked on to date!
Innovative Contracting & Engineering (ICE) is a team comprised of former contractors and professional engineers who have a thorough understanding of market fluctuations, pricing trends, construction strategies, and innovations. Our experience working on alternative delivery projects across the United States has provided our team with a tool bag full of industry best practices. Construction cost estimating and scheduling is our primary focus. This focus is how we stay current on construction trends and price changes, and that helps us produce more accurate estimates than our competition. We have a passion for finding creative approaches to construction. We are constantly looking for innovative construction techniques to add value to the projects we are working on. Our team has found a way to reduce schedule and/or construction costs on every project we have worked on to date! ICE works closely with our clients to improve the quality of their most challenging projects.
Past Newsletters:
How AI Can Help Make Construction Projects Run Smoother
Innovations are NOT “Negative Risks.”
CMGC or PD-B: Choosing the Right Delivery Method
Are Blue Book Equipment Rates Appropriate for use on Alternative Delivery Projects?
Free Tools! - Innovations Tracking
Pareto’s Principle and Concept Cost Estimates
Meeting Project Risks & Challenges
Leaders Turn Vision into Infrastructure
Early completion milestone bonuses in CMGC contracts
Risk Management Best Practices
Vision 2020?? Nobody saw this coming!
How can we help you? Send us your questions, comments, and request.
Email, Call, or Text: Dan Bender, 702-523-2354, danbender@iceteams.com