In-house Design/Construction Services

• Introduction
• Mission and Goals
• Justification: Advantages and Disadvantages
• Defining a Niche
• Budgets, Fees, and Rates
• Staffing
• Measuring Performance
• Clients
• References

Introduction

Every institution explores and evaluates different approaches to project delivery to determine the most expedient and cost-effective approach. Delivery systems span the full spectrum of implementation: design-bid-build, design-build, CM at risk, and the like. Although each of these approaches has merit, many institutions also rely on in-house units to deliver timely and cost-effective projects. Often these in-house units are an expansion of maintenance-type service necessary to maintain the operational aspects of campus facilities. The key is to understand the specific niche environment that can make these operations successful and marketing the services accordingly without competing with outside sources.

This chapter will cover the business model (yes, it is still a business!) required to implement and maintain a successful operation. Of utmost importance is that this operation will not function as a normal design and construction unit that you might find in the private sector. To maximize any chance for success, the management team that you develop for this unit must understand that fundamental principle. In fact, everything from office geography to estimating should be fully integrated without separating designer and superintendent roles. The staff must understand that they are an integrated team and success relies on many factors, the most important of which is open communication. Each side must feel comfortable that it can communicate throughout the life of the project on any issue without fear of contradiction or retribution. Every project has inherent problems, and the staff's ability to resolve issues becomes the real measure of success.

Your business plans for initiating this unit, or amending current units, should address each of the following:

• Mission and goals
• Justification; advantages/disadvantages
• Defining your niche
• Budgets, fees, and rates
• Staffing
• Measuring performance
• Clients