JE Dunn is a proven builder that is always evolving and focused on continuous improvement for the benefit of our clients and our people. A good example of that is the growth of our in house design management resources. As design-build continues to be a predominant construction delivery method, JE Dunn’s in-house Design Service expertise offers a unique perspective to project teams that focuses on heightened collaboration. At JE Dunn, we build places, relationships, and better ways to do business. Our role as a builder has evolved, and Design Management Services is one way JE Dunn can be an indispensable business partner.
Eliminates Us vs. Them Mentality
The goal – to be a better partner to our clients, our subcontractors, and our design teams, through Design Management Services. As builders, we are not looking to “dictate” the design, but rather, “guide” the design process with the expertise and experience we have. This enhances partnerships with external design teams, allows for innovation during the design phase of a project and highlights opportunities for the project team to provide additional value to owners. Though design managers work for JE Dunn, we serve as a liaison between the construction team and design partners to minimize hierarchy on projects. This neutral party approach fosters collaboration and ensures design and budget alignment early on. JE Dunn’s Design Services is not intended to be a standalone practice that competes for work, but a valued resource to help bridge gaps when deemed necessary. Utilizing a design manager as the single-point-of-contact creates continuity, integrating design and construction to create one cohesive team.
Employs a Comparative Advantage Approach
Our Design Services approach is not an absolute. Although advantageous on any project, Design Services involvement varies based on the value it adds to different projects. JE Dunn assesses the need for a design manager with predefined criteria, including project cost, complexity, and the collective experience of the project team and owner on design-build projects and with the architect. The ambiguity of these qualifications allows for further evaluation of unique strengths and weaknesses to move forward with an approach that benefits all stakeholders. Ultimately, the role of a design manager is determined by the degree of risk reduction and cost savings with the goal of exceeding client expectations in mind.
Reinforces Efficient Design Process
A major headache for owners is the chasm that happens from preconstruction to construction. Engaging the builder early allows for proactive discussion on constructability, cost, and schedule to ensure that what is designed can be built. By informing the design, JE Dunn can avoid costly redesigns while guaranteeing the client’s vision is met. JE Dunn has design managers located across the company, providing regional and market accessibility to dedicated design resources for project teams. This not only saves time but improves the client’s overall experience during the design phase. Design managers drive effective relationships by facilitating collaboration that extends from design through construction. While design managers are primarily involved at the front end, working to establish design early and break ground sooner, our role is continuous. As the single-point-of-contact throughout the entire process, design managers break down barriers to communication and become problem-solvers for owners ‘out of the design phase.’ This creates a smoother transition and overall seamless process, making JE Dunn’s Design Services a valuable resource for project teams.
