DBIA - Design-Build Institute of America Design-Build Fundamentals and Principles Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the fundamental principle of 'single-point responsibility' in the design-build project delivery method?

Accepted Answer

A single entity holds one contract with the owner and assumes sole responsibility for both the design and construction of the project.

Answer

The owner holds separate contracts with the architect and the contractor, but designates the contractor as the single point of contact for all construction-related issues.

Answer

The architect acts as the owner's agent, holding all subcontracts and bearing responsibility for the entire project outcome.

Answer

A third-party construction manager is hired by the owner to coordinate between the separately contracted design and construction firms.

Question 2

An owner is undertaking a complex project with a need for innovation and a desire to fast-track the schedule. They want to select a team based heavily on qualifications and collaborative ability rather than just the lowest price. Which procurement method is most aligned with these goals according to DBIA principles?

Accepted Answer

Best Value Selection

Answer

Low Bid

Answer

Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR)

Answer

Multi-prime Contracting

Question 3

In a 'Design-Build Done Right®' approach, what is the primary role of the owner during the design development phase?

Accepted Answer

To define the project's performance requirements, goals, and budget, and then actively collaborate with the integrated team.

Answer

To provide prescriptive, detailed specifications that the design-build team must follow exactly.

Answer

To step back completely after procurement and delegate all decisions to the design-builder to maximize efficiency.

Answer

To manage the designers and contractors separately to ensure checks and balances are maintained.

Question 4

Which of the following is a key advantage of the integrated nature of design-build that helps to minimize risk for the owner?

Accepted Answer

It fosters collaboration and constructability reviews early in the design phase, reducing errors and omissions.

Answer

It guarantees that the final project cost will always be lower than the initial budget.

Answer

It allows the owner to transfer all project risks, including unforeseen site conditions, to the design-builder.

Answer

It eliminates the need for the owner to be involved in any decision-making after the contract is signed.

Question 5

A public agency is preparing an RFQ/RFP for a new transit center using design-build. According to DBIA's Universal Best Practices, the procurement documents should primarily focus on:

Accepted Answer

Performance-based requirements that define the desired outcomes, allowing teams to propose innovative solutions.

Answer

A highly detailed, prescriptive design to ensure all proposers are bidding on the exact same scope.

Answer

The lowest possible price as the sole selection criterion to ensure fiscal responsibility.

Answer

Requiring proposers to submit a full set of construction documents to minimize post-award design time.

Question 6

During the execution of a design-build project, a dispute arises regarding a specific design element's functionality. Under the single-point responsibility model, who is the owner's primary point of contact for resolving this issue?

Accepted Answer

The design-build entity's project manager.

Answer

The lead architect on the design team.

Answer

The project's lead structural engineer.

Answer

An independent, third-party arbitrator.