Which project delivery method typically involves a design phase followed by a bidding phase?

The design-bid-build method is characterized by its distinct phases of project delivery. In this approach, the process begins with the design phase, where the project design is fully developed and completed before any construction begins. After the design has been finalized, a bidding phase follows, during which contractors submit their proposals based on the completed design. This method allows for a clear separation between the design and construction tasks, which can help ensure that the project is precisely defined before moving into the construction phase.

In contrast, the design-build method combines both the design and construction phases under a single contract, streamlining the process but not involving a separate bidding phase. The fast-track method allows for overlapping phases to expedite project completion, which differs from the sequential nature of design-bid-build. Lastly, the construction manager at risk method provides a construction manager who advises during the design phase and then takes on the risk for the construction phase, again not adhering to the traditional separate design and bidding steps evident in design-bid-build.