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Choosing the Right Procurement Route for Building Works

How to select the right procurement route for your project.

Decision GuideApril 2026Procurement
Overview

Selecting the right procurement route

The procurement route determines how design responsibility, risk and cost certainty are allocated. Procurement advice saves time and cost downstream.

Traditional procurement

Client appoints a design team to prepare detailed drawings before tendering. Maximum control over quality, good cost certainty. Suited to refurbishment and quality-critical projects.

Design and build

Contractor takes design and construction responsibility. Transfers design risk, can be faster. An Employer's Agent administers the contract.

Management contracting

A management contractor manages construction with trade contractors. Flexibility and early involvement but less cost certainty. Suited to complex or fast-track projects.

Making the right choice

Depends on design quality, cost certainty, speed and risk allocation. A contract administrator can advise on the most appropriate route.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Which gives most cost certainty?

Traditional with a fully detailed design. D&B offers good certainty once the contract is signed.

Which is fastest?

D&B generally because design and construction overlap.

Who carries design risk in D&B?

The contractor develops a compliant design against the client's requirements.

Can I change route mid-project?

Changing is disruptive and costly. Decide early based on clear priorities.

Next Steps

How we can help