Introduction
DB (Design-Build), Turn Key, and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) are three well-established project delivery methods that have been widely used in the construction industry for many years. Despite some similarities, each method has its unique characteristics and cannot be considered interchangeable.
Discussion
To better understand these project delivery methods and how they differ, it is important to consider the similarities and differences between them, as well as the type of projects that are best suited for each method. These project delivery methods play a crucial role in the success of a construction project and can have a significant impact on the overall timeline, budget, and quality of the final product. Whether one is an owner, contractor, or engineer, understanding each method’s pros and cons is essential to making an informed decision about which delivery method to use for your project.
The contractor is responsible for delivering the project to the client in all three project delivery methods commonly used in the construction industry – Design-Build (DB), Turn Key, Engineering, Procurement, and Construction. This responsibility encompasses all aspects of the project, including design, construction, procurement, and commissioning. Additionally, all three methods typically involve a fixed-price contract, in which the contractor agrees to deliver the project for a predetermined price that includes all costs associated with the project. Another similarity between the three methods is that the contractor serves as the client’s single point of contact, allowing for streamlined communication and coordination throughout the project.
The differences between Design-Build, Turn Key, Engineering, Procurement, and Construction projects lie in the responsibilities of the contractor and the client and the level of risk and control involved. In a DB project, the contractor is responsible for both the design and construction, which means they take on more risk but also have more control over the project (Kwame, 2019). In a turnkey project, the client provides the design, making them responsible for a higher level of risk, but they also have more control over the project (Chandan, 2018). In an EPC project, the risk is shared between the client and contractor, with the contractor having more control over the procurement and construction phases and the client having more control over the engineering phase.
However, the type of projects best suited for each delivery method varies depending on the specific needs and requirements of the project. Design-Build (DB) is best suited for projects that require a high level of creativity and flexibility in the design phase, such as complex buildings, infrastructure projects, and industrial facilities (Kwame, 2019). According to Chandan (2018), turn Key projects, on the other hand, are best suited for projects with a well-defined design and require a quick and efficient construction process, such as residential and commercial buildings and small-scale infrastructure projects. Further, according to Construction (2021), EPC is ideal for large-scale infrastructure projects, such as power plants, oil refineries, and petrochemical facilities, as well as projects that require specialized engineering and procurement services, such as offshore platforms, pipelines, and mines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, DB, Turn Key, and EPC are three distinct project delivery methods with similarities and differences. Understanding these similarities and differences is crucial in determining which method suits a particular project. It is important to carefully consider a project’s specific needs and requirements before choosing a delivery method, as each method has its strengths and limitations.
References
Chandan, S. (2018). Modern practices in project management of turnkey engineering and construction projects. ISBR Management Journal ISSN (Online)-2456-9062, 3(2).
Construction, B. (2021). What is EPC (Engineering Procurement, Construction)? Bodell Construction. Web.
Kwame, A. (2019). Construction management in the design-build process. KWAME. Web.