Construction

Construction Delivery Methods

A construction delivery method is the manner in which a project will be designed and constructed. The options include:

Design-Bid-Build (DBB)

In Design-Bid-Build, the architect or engineer serves as the project coordinator. Their role is to design, prepare the specifications and produce the construction drawings, administer the contract, tender the works, and manage the works from inception to completion. There are direct contractual links between the architect's client (school district) and the main contractor. Subcontractors have a direct contractual relationship with the main contractor.

Design-Build (DB)

As defined by Wyoming statute, Design-Build is a delivery method in which there is a single contract between the public entity (school district) and a design-builder who provides a range of services, including architectural and engineering services, labor, materials and construction management. In selecting a design-builder, the public entity may utilize one of three methods: request for qualifications, fixed scope request for proposal, or fixed price request for proposal.

Construction Manager Agent (CMA)

Wyoming statute defines the CMA delivery method as one where services are procured under existing statutes for professional services. The CMA is a construction consultant providing administrative and management services to the public entity (school district) throughout the design and construction phases of a project. Under this delivery method, the CMA is not the contracting agent and is not responsible for purchase orders.

Construction Manager At Risk (CMAR)

Under Wyoming statute, the CMAR is an advocate for the public entity (school district), as determined by contracts signed throughout the pre-construction phase. During construction, the CMAR is responsible for all project subcontractors and purchase orders, and may conduct all or a portion of the construction project work.

In addition, the CMAR is responsible for providing a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) for the project before work commences.

Construction Process

Pre-construction Conference (Kick-Off)

Before construction begins, a kick-off meeting is held involving the SFD Project Manager, district stakeholders, architect/engineer, CMAR, Owner's Representative (if applicable), general contractor, and major subcontractors. Topics that may be covered include:

  • Designation of Responsibilities

  • Scheduling/Critical Work Sequencing

  • Review of Construction Documents

  • Major Equipment Deliveries and Priorities

  • Process for Submitting Invoices and Change Orders

Procurement & Project Bidding

Procurement generally refers to the process of acquiring goods, services, or works from external resources. In the creation of quality school facilities, procuring a team of qualified construction professionals is essential. These include design professionals (architects and engineers) and non-design professionals (such as carpenters, electricians, masons, plumbers, general contractors, etc.).

While each school district has the ability to use its own procurement process, SFC policies encourage using a qualification-based selection process where multiple firms/individuals are allowed to compete for the business.

Job Progress (OAC) Meetings

Regular, onsite progress meetings are held between the SFD Project Manager, the owner (district), architect, and contractor to review:

  • Project Status

  • Issues Impeding Construction Progress

  • Actions Taken to Resolve Construction Issues

  • Conformance to SFC Design Guidelines

  • Status of Change Orders

Occupancy & Project Closeout

Closeout involves a series of checks and inspections to ensure the building meets all code and condition requirements for occupancy. The SFD uses a comprehensive Project Closeout Checklist to document a wide range of information, including:

  • Certificates of inspection from local code and building officials

  • Architect/engineer sign-off of final completion

  • Contractor's letter of construction warranty

  • Proof of testing for HVAC, fire alarm, and other essential systems

  • Receipt of all manufacturers' operations and maintenance manuals

  • Receipt of all manufacturers' and suppliers' warranties