Every great project starts with a clear path forward. Without it, even the best ideas can lose their way.

The same applies to construction projects. You need a proper construction project delivery method to take your project from concept to completion.

There are different construction project delivery methods, each following a distinct process. Choosing the right one is critical as it can impact the quality and success of your project.

But how do you choose the right one? Let’s break down the most common construction delivery methods, their strengths, and the challenges you must watch out for.

6 Common Construction Project Delivery Methods for Architects

⏰ 60-Second Summary

🚧 There are multiple ways to manage a construction project, each with its own advantages and disadvantages

🚧 Some methods like Design-Bid-Build are traditional and give the owner a lot of control but also more responsibility

🚧 Others, like Design-Build, are more collaborative and streamline the process

🚧 Choosing the best method depends on the specific project, the owner’s preferences, and factors like cost, timeline, construction phase, and risk tolerance

🚧 Regardless of the method, it’s critical to centralize the process using construction management software and document processes thoroughly for project success

6 Common Construction Project Delivery Methods

There isn’t one right approach to completing a construction project. Simply put, each method varies significantly in terms of budget, timeline, process, and collaboration.

Let’s look at the six common project delivery methods with their pros and cons:

1. Design-Bid-Build (DBB)

The Design-Bid-Build method follows a simple approach. Each construction project phase—Design, Bid, Build—stands independently and is completed step-by-step without overlapping.

A traditional project delivery method, DBB is more prevalent among owners as it offers better control over the construction process and incurs lower project costs.

Here’s how it works:

Design phase: The owner collaborates with architects and engineers to bring the project idea to life. This design team maps out the entire project, creating drawings that guide the construction process and project scope
Bid phase: Next, the owner shares the project drawings for bidding to choose the best construction team. Contractors estimate construction costs based on the design process, project delivery methods, materials, labor, and timeline
Build phase: After signing the contract, all materials are ordered to kickstart and complete construction. This is where the general contractor hires subcontractors, oversees operations, and keeps the project on track—while the owner stays in the loop for updates, tweaks, and cost adjustments

Pros

✅ Clear transparency and control for the owner with a step-by-step approach

✅ Flexibility to adjust designs before construction begins

Cons

❌ The owner holds the risk and responsibility for the entire project

❌ Construction begins only when the design is ready and completed

💈Bonus: 10 Free Construction Bid Templates For Project Success

2. Design-Build (DB)

In the Design-Build method, the owner signs a single contract with the design-build team for everything—design to construction. Unlike DBB’s separated steps, this approach encourages smoother teamwork.

What was once an ‘alternative to the DBB method’ is now a popular choice, bringing everyone together to focus on one goal: a successful, high-quality project.

Further, the design-build methodology is divided into five phases. Let’s walk through its working principle:

Team selection: The owner forms a design-build team in one of two ways. They can either pick a firm that selects the architect, builder, and engineer or choose the team members or subcontractors themselves
Project planning: This phase brings everyone together to understand the owner’s vision, budget, goals, delivery methods, and schedule. This is where the team analyzes the site to address expectations and challenges early on
Design phase begins: With input from all team members, the architect leads the design process and creates elaborate drawings. Before the final call, the owner finalizes the design
Bidding process: The design-builder handles the bidding process, contacting trusted subcontractors. They also set a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP), giving the owner cost clarity. If the project exceeds the GMP, the design-builder absorbs the extra costs to avoid burdening the owner
Construction process: Once the GMP is locked in, subcontractors and suppliers join the team to begin the construction tasks. Since the team has been working together from the early stages, there’s minimal risk of inconsistencies

Pros

✅ Less commitment required from the owner

✅ Reduces rework and order changes by addressing issues early

Cons

❌ Typically costs more than other project delivery methods

❌ Misunderstandings can arise between contractors and the design team

3. Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR)

CMAR is a construction project delivery method where the owner hires a construction manager (CM) to complete the project with a Global Minimum Requirement (GMR).

Unlike other building project delivery methods where the owner takes charge, the construction manager in CMAR oversees everything—from the design process to completion.

As a key consultant, the construction manager advises on the budget, schedule, quality, and feasibility. Plus, if costs exceed the initial estimate, they take responsibility for the extra expenses, ensuring the owner’s peace of mind.

Let’s explore how this method works:

Choosing the CM: The owner selects a construction manager based on expertise, past performance, and success in complex projects. Sometimes, the owner asks construction project manager interview questions to find the perfect fit
Setting the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP): Once chosen, the CM works with the owner to understand the project’s scope. Using this info, they set a GMP to cover fees, materials, labor, and contingencies
Strategic consultant: The CM steps in as a consultant, suggesting potential cost savings through material choices, design tweaks, and constructability reviews. This keeps the project aligned with the budget and project timeline
Managing construction: During construction, the CM coordinates subcontractors and engineers, monitors progress, and addresses challenges. They keep the owner updated while ensuring the project meets its plans and costs
Completion: Once construction is complete, the CM handles pending payments, addresses any concerns, and hands over manuals and warranties for future maintenance

Pros

✅ Early cost estimates give the owner clarity

✅ The GMP sets a cost ceiling, reducing the risk of budget overruns

Cons

❌ Not ideal for faster project turnaround

❌ Project success depends on the CM’s skills and experience

4. Construction Management Multi-Prime (CMMP)

CMMP skips the usual step of hiring a general contractor. Instead, the owner signs separate contracts with each stakeholder.

Often, the owner brings in a construction manager to help with the budget and project timeline. However, since the owner takes on more risks and responsibilities, this method works best for those with solid construction experience.

Here’s a breakdown of how this project works:

Design phase: The owner works directly with the architect and engineer, signing separate contracts to create the construction drawings. In some cases, a CM intervenes early to offer advice or input during the design process
Construction: Once the design is finalized, the owner and CM plan the budget and project scope together. The CM helps coordinate construction but has limited control over the final outcome
Subcontractors: The owner selects subcontractors to balance costs and achieve the desired results. Subcontractors send updates and invoices directly to the owner once the project is complete

Pros

✅ More control for the owner over each project stage

✅ Direct interaction with stakeholders

Cons

❌ Final costs are unclear until all contractors are hired

❌ Higher risks for the owner, with mismanagement leading to extra costs

5. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP or P3)

The PPP or P3 project delivery method is a collaboration between a government agency and a private entity to develop, operate, and maintain publicly funded projects.

This method is for large-scale projects like parks, roads, hospitals, airports, and schools, which span 20-30 years and have funding shared between the public and private sectors.

This delivery method leverages private sector expertise, funding, and technology to bring public projects to life. As a result, it allows access to advanced solutions that the public sector may lack.

For the public sector, PPPs strengthen infrastructure and make countries more competitive by diversifying publicly funded projects. It’s a win-win situation, combining resources and expertise to deliver better community outcomes.

Pros

✅ Combines government funding with private-sector expertise for better construction outcomes

✅ Bond protection ensures everyone working on the project gets paid

Cons

❌ Government priority changes can delay or impact projects

❌ Managing bond claims can be challenging for unpaid contractors

6. Integrated Project Delivery (IPD)

Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) brings everyone together—owner, designer, engineer, general contractor, and subcontractors—from start to end. Each stakeholder contributes expertise to refine the project, reduce risks, and boost collaboration. This teamwork cuts down on rework and helps avoid cost overruns.

Here’s how this method works:

Conceptualization: The team sets project goals, creates a detailed execution plan, and identifies potential risks with strategies to prevent them
Design phase: Stakeholders collaborate to design an efficient project, find cost-saving opportunities, and eliminate waste. Many teams use Building Information Modeling (BIM) for better data sharing and coordination
Construction: The team—including owners, architects, contractors, and subcontractors—communicates contract terms, starts the project, and resolves disputes along the way to reach the end goal

Pros

✅ Shared project risk between design and construction teams

✅ Increased efficiency and shorter timelines due to a collaborative approach

Cons

❌ Contract signing can take longer with multiple stakeholders involved

❌ Requires strong trust and willingness from all parties to collaborate transparently

How to Choose the Best Project Delivery Method?

Before you choose the best project delivery method, assess your project needs, goals, and objectives. Ask yourself:

Are there multiple projects and a specific deadline?
How much control are you willing to have over the design and construction phases of the project?
Do you want the designer to collaborate with the contractors and subcontractors to improve the project outcome?
Do you want to review and approve changes in the design?
Can the budget be flexible, or do you need to eliminate change orders?
Do you want the stakeholders to use construction project management software for small businesses or any other business model?
Are you looking to avoid conflicts between designers and stakeholders?

These are some questions that will help you boil down your project needs. Apart from these, there are other considerations to shape your choice further (more on that below 👇)

Factors to consider when choosing a construction project delivery method

Picking the right delivery method impacts how successfully your project is completed. However, each method has its own goals and challenges. Here’s what to consider:

Project type

Your project’s complexity will often dictate the best delivery method.

For simpler or repeatable projects, methods like DBB or CMMP are great options
For more complex designs or those with higher technical risks, collaborative methods like Design-Build or IPD work better

Control

How much control do you want?

If you prefer a hands-on approach, DBB gives you complete oversight from design to construction
If you’re okay with delegating responsibilities, methods like CMAR let the contractor or construction manager take charge

Risk

As project owners, decide who will handle project risks.

In IPD, risk is shared among all stakeholders, promoting teamwork
With DBB, contractors bear most of the risk, keeping the owner less involved in day-to-day issues

Timeline

Consider whether you’re any short of time.

Methods like Design-Build and CMAR overlap the design and construction phases to save time
If you’re not in a rush, DBB ensures a step-by-step approach, with each phase completed before the next begins

Budget control

Your budget can heavily influence the method you choose.

Want cost certainty? CMAR offers a GMP to avoid surprises
Prefer competitive pricing? DBB or CMMP lets you explore bids and select the most cost-effective option

Remember, early contractor involvement often leads to better cost control, while late involvement might limit flexibility.

💈Bonus: 10 Best Project Management Software For Subcontractors

Implementing Construction Software to Enhance Project Delivery

For years, the construction industry has relied on manual processes to manage projects. This approach only led to fragmented operations, miscommunication, and inefficiencies.

That’s where most professionals drew the line to introduce construction management software terms and tools. This is what happened right after ⬇️

☎️ Effective communication and collaboration

Construction management software facilitates real-time communication and collaboration. It connects employees, contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and owners across locations through chat, audio, and video, ensuring clarity and transparency while reducing confusion.

🎯 Improved project efficiency

If you’re tired of juggling repetitive tasks, you definitely need construction project management tools to improve construction efficiency. It automates updates, task assignments, and timeline management, saving you a ton of time.

Plus, you don’t need to switch between emails, spreadsheets, and calls as these tools integrate seamlessly with your existing systems, keeping everything in one place.

⏰ Timely risk assessment

The best construction management software comes with advanced features such as dashboards, reports, and Gantt charts to visualize complex projects and foresee risks. With this timely risk identification, you can deploy mitigation strategies and handle material shortages, budget overruns, and potential delays.

💡Pro Tip: Set up automated reminders for equipment maintenance based on usage hours logged in the system. Link these to your inventory management module to prevent costly breakdowns and further extend equipment life.

How ClickUp Enhances Construction Project Delivery?

Managing construction projects isn’t getting any simpler. With countless moving parts, multiple stakeholders, and tight deadlines, you need a solution that keeps everything under one roof.

That’s where you need ClickUp, a centralized project management platform, aka the everything app for work.

One of its core offerings, ClickUp for Construction Teams, helps manage the entire construction process effortlessly. From the designing phase to close-out, it seamlessly bridges the gap between planning and execution.

ClickUp’s Construction Project Management Software: Construction Project Delivery Methods — Plan, manage, and track construction projects from pre-sales to delivery in one singular point with ClickUp’s Construction Project Management Software

Let’s take a closer look:

Plan tasks with ease by using 10+ views like Lists, Calendars, and Gantt Charts to fit your workflow
Communicate clearly with clients and teams using built-in chat and file sharing to avoid confusion
Collaborate effortlessly from anywhere by tagging teammates and adding comments real time on desktop or mobile
Review and annotate files quickly with submittals, RFIs, drawings, and designs all in one shared space
Track resources efficiently by organizing clients, contractors, and materials with Custom Fields
Visualize goals and milestones with Dashboards to keep your team aligned
Create accurate estimates for materials, purchase orders, and budgets without jumping between tools
Draft SOPs for recurring tasks to maintain consistency throughout the project

Plus, ClickUp goes above and beyond to streamline your line of work. From automation to chat, it has everything. Let’s dig into its details:

Create detailed project plans

Use ClickUp Docs to create a detailed project plan and help your stakeholders access all project information in one place.

For instance, you can:

Breakdown complex projects into realistic benchmarks
Define roles and responsibilities of different stakeholders—design team, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors
Include project scope, estimated costs, timeline, resource allocation, and workload distribution
Highlight the potential risks the project might encounter in the journey

What’s more? You can also add relevant links, reports, videos, and presentations to make it more contextual and interesting.

💡Pro Tip: Start each day by customizing ClickUp’s Daily Construction Report Template for your specific project needs. Include a checklist for weather conditions, labor hours, and equipment usage. This simple 5-minute setup saves hours in end-of-day reporting.

Schedule projects and track progress

With ClickUp’s construction scheduling software, you’re in the driver’s seat, fully in control of your project timelines. Plan, track, and manage schedules easily to keep every project on track.

Plus, with ClickUp Gantt Charts, you can see your entire timeline at a glance, spot dependencies, identify critical paths, catch bottlenecks, and make wise moves to stay on schedule.

ClickUp Gantt Chart View: Construction Project Delivery Methods — Track progress, dependencies, and challenges on a shared timeline using ClickUp Gantt Chart View

Facilitate smooth collaboration

If you’re exhausted from misunderstandings, delays, and endless change orders in your construction projects, then ClickUp Chat is the answer. It keeps everyone on your team fully connected on one platform.

No more hopping between apps and tools. With Chat, you can communicate seamlessly, create tasks directly from conversations, and even leverage AI to summarize messages and draft new ones—all within a single, powerful platform.

Here’s how ClickUp Chat makes collaboration effortless:

Work directly from chat: Turn messages into tasks or subtasks with just one click—no more jumping between tools
Stay connected with context: Conversations automatically link to tasks, documents, or other chats, so everything you need is in one place
Resolve issues instantly: Use real-time messaging, @mentions, and AI-suggested responses to keep discussions flowing and tasks moving
Simplify updates: Post updates on design changes or project milestones and make sure the whole team is in the loop

Automate tasks and streamline workflows

Managing construction projects is no small task, but ClickUp Automations simplifies it so you can focus on delivering projects on time.

ClickUp Tasks: Construction Project Delivery Methods — Automate recurring tasks and save your valuable time using ClickUp Automations

This is how it streamlines your workflow:

Automate task management: Use 100+ ready-made automation templates to assign tasks, update statuses, post comments, and more
Keep workflows flexible: Assign tasks dynamically with dynamic assignees based on who created, watched, or triggered the action
Shortcuts for efficiency: Set project shortcuts to assign tasks and watchers across project locations quickly

Combine your construction workflows with AI, and you’ll be invincible. Let’s look at it in detail.

Leverage the power of AI

ClickUp Brain is a smart AI assistant for all your construction projects, helping you get instant answers across your workspace.

ClickUp Brain: Construction Project Delivery Methods — Get answers about your projects and generate construction documents using ClickUp Brain

Here’s what we mean:

Stay updated without the hassle: Wondering how the design phase is going or if materials have been ordered? Just ask, and ClickUp Brain gives you the status in seconds
Simplify collaboration: Need an update from team members? It pulls the info you need without interrupting their workflow
Find documents in a snap: Whether it’s contracts, RFIs, or design plans, ClickUp Brain makes it easy to locate and access what you’re looking for
Keep everyone aligned: Get clear answers on project goals, timelines, and action items

💡Pro Tip: Pair ClickUp Brain with a pre-built construction management template to further simplify your workflow. It gives you a head start on project plans, schedules, and documentation, letting you focus on delivering your project successfully.

Further, use ClickUp’s Construction Management Template to oversee all phases or aspects of your construction projects in one place.

ClickUp’s Construction Project Management Template — Manage every phase of your construction project using ClickUp Construction Management Template

With this template, you can:

Track construction timelines with an easy-to-use calendar
Organize tasks, resources, and budgets in a structured list
Visualize workflows using a drag-and-drop Kanban board
Schedule and manage project dates on a horizontal timeline

Download This Template

Even better, ClickUp has many construction management plan templates that you can use instantly to manage your construction schedule throughout the build.

Streamline Your Construction Projects Using ClickUp

The construction industry is plagued with inefficiencies, from juggling tools and team coordination to keeping track of timelines. These challenges leave even the most experienced professionals dazed.

But imagine managing a construction project where nothing gets lost in the shuffle—no missed deadlines, miscommunications, or endless back-and-forth.

What if there was a single platform to simplify it all? Enter ClickUp.

It streamlines every aspect of construction project management—assignments, communication, timelines, and more. Whether you’re coordinating complex designs, managing subcontractors, or tackling tight deadlines, ClickUp ensures everything runs smoothly.

Want to build a seamless construction management workflow? Try ClickUp for free today.