DBIA Design-Build Fundamentals and Principles Questions and Answers 3

Question 1

What is the owner's 'criteria document' in design-build, and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

A document prepared by or for the owner that defines the project's functional and performance requirements as the basis for design-build proposals

Answer

The final construction drawings prepared by the design-builder

Answer

A post-construction warranty manual

Answer

The design-builder's marketing brochure

Question 2

According to DBIA, what is the recommended approach when disputes arise during a design-build project?

Accepted Answer

Use a tiered dispute resolution process starting with direct negotiation, followed by mediation, before proceeding to binding resolution

Answer

Immediately file a lawsuit

Answer

Terminate the contract and start over

Answer

Have the owner unilaterally decide all disputes

Question 3

How does design-build address the 'Spearin Doctrine' differently than design-bid-build?

Accepted Answer

In design-build the design-builder bears more design-related risk because they control both design and construction, reducing the owner's implied warranty exposure

Answer

Design-build eliminates the Spearin Doctrine entirely

Answer

The Spearin Doctrine applies identically in both delivery methods

Answer

Design-build contractors can sue owners under Spearin more easily

Question 4

What does DBIA identify as the primary benefit of design-build for public sector owners?

Accepted Answer

It provides better cost certainty, faster delivery, and reduced claims compared to traditional methods

Answer

It eliminates all procurement regulations

Answer

It allows owners to bypass competitive selection requirements

Answer

Public sector owners cannot use design-build

Question 5

In design-build, what is meant by 'design-builder-led' design?

Accepted Answer

The design-builder manages and takes responsibility for the design process, typically with licensed design professionals as part of the design-build entity

Answer

The contractor performs all design work without any licensed professionals

Answer

The owner has no review rights over the design

Answer

Only the construction manager reviews the design

Question 6

What is the significance of DBIA's 'Universally Applicable Tenets' of design-build?

Accepted Answer

They establish foundational principles that define best practices for design-build delivery regardless of project type, size, or sector

Answer

They are legally binding regulations that override state law

Answer

They apply only to DBIA-certified professionals

Answer

They replace building codes for design-build projects