ACI has always strived to be at the forefront of innovation in the construction industry. This includes new ways of organizing projects. Today, we are sitting down with George Ray, President and Owner of ACI, to talk about a more in-depth understanding of their streamlined design-build process. 

*Remarks have been edited for clarity*

“Design-build is a project delivery method that kind of takes the place of design-bid-build. What it does is creates a team of the designer, architect, engineer, and contractor in an effort to streamline the process and reduce cost and eliminate errors and confrontations during a project. We have used design-build for every type of project out there. There really isn’t a project that would not allow design-build to be used. Even more recently, with the use of design-build and municipal projects, or government projects, we’ve partnered with Sourcewell which allows us now to do design-build with government entities. So really, design-build replaces the standard design-bid-build that a lot of people are familiar with. The benefits of design-build, as I mentioned earlier, are time savings and cost savings. That’s achieved because during the design process you have all the entities involved. You set up meetings with the owner, with the architect, with the engineer, with the contractor. We come together as a team and we look at all the different options for materials and methods of construction for a particular type of project and really come to a conclusion as to what’s the best for that project. And by everybody buying into it, there’s no animosity about “well this would have worked better, that would have worked better.” Again, that team approach saves you time and it in the long run saves cost because you know everybody decided on a method upfront.

Thank you for watching. we appreciate your time and if you have any more questions don’t hesitate to look at our website or give us a call, we certainly can help.”

[Music]

Simply running a small business is a hefty task. Moreso, running it well and in a profitable manner is a huge feat. Adding in anything extra may seem like an overwhelming task, especially something like remodeling, adding on or building a new facility. Renovating or expanding your business is a sure sign of positive growth and that your business is headed in the right direction. Keep pushing forward in your business endeavor by following these simple tasks to manage your business during an expansion.

Set reasonable construction hours.

Depending on the type of business that you own, setting reasonable construction hours may be an easy or a difficult task. While most people work the typical 9 to 5 work shift, and not on the weekends, it may be strenuous having the construction happening during your peak times. Having limited hours can extend your construction project, which also adds to the overall cost. When negotiating a contract with the contractor, consider asking for unconventional hours to have the work completed. This may mean having the work crew arrive early in the morning and work until your business opens at 9am, or having them  work in the evening, after your business has closed. Negotiating your construction hours will help keep your employees and customers appreciative of your business remaining open during normal hours of operation. 

Keep people informed.

From the beginning of the project to the end, keep those who are affected by the projected well informed. Not only should you notify your employees regarding your upcoming project, but it will be helpful to inform your customers, as well. Providing signage that explains new hours or new locations ensures that they know that your business will remain open but may have different hours of operation during the expansion. This helps mitigate any questions or false information they may have received.

Ensure cleanliness and safety.

Construction activities can create many types of hazards and debris. It’s important your contractor keeps a clean worksite. This involves daily cleanup including sweeping of floors, removing demoed materials, throwing out packaging materials and properly storing onsite materials. They should also address safety situations such as fall hazards with temporary fences or railings, installing temporary lighting to protect against dark areas and trip obstacles  and provide temporary enclosures to keep customers out of construction areas and to secure the facility at night.  

ACI can help you.

If you’re looking to renovate or expand your business, reach out to our team of seasoned specialists at Associated Contractors, Inc. today. We can help you implement a solid plan, stay on track and within budget in order to make the process as smooth as possible for you and your business. We will be there during your business expansion from start to finish.

Be sure to check out other topics in this series:

 Expansion Checklist Part 1: Preconstruction Considerations  

 Expansion Checklist Part 2: Bidding Process vs. Design Build 

Expansion Checklist Part 3: Considerations When Planning your Budget for your Project

Expansion Checklist Part 4: Selecting Your Project Team 

When beginning a new construction project, you will find that many people are required to get the job done. Choosing your building team for an upcoming project is a big deal, and it’s one of the first things that should to be on your to-do list. This may seem like common sense, but often is overlooked.

This process begins when you choose your contractor. If this is your first construction project, you may not have a lot of experience on what to look for. Learn more about how to choose your team, who should be involved, what to look for and what your team will expect from you:

How to choose a contractor.

Choosing a contractor is the first big step for the construction project. A contractor should be someone you can trust, communicate well with, is reputable and has a history of completed jobs. Make sure to do thorough research when searching for a contractor. Look online at their website to find information about their recent and past jobs to see if they have experience with the type of building you are planning to build or remodel. Interview potential contractors and ask about their processes, quality control, credit history, financial stability, and any litigation history. Speaking to recent customers may be a good way to receive a first-hand opinion. It is also important to develop confidence and trust with the person you will be working with at the construction company before you finalize any decision.

How to choose an architect/engineer.

Choosing an architect will be a similar process to choosing a contractor. In addition to your preliminary research, you want to find someone who you are able to communicate well with and that will listen to your requirements. Your contractor may already have an architect that works for him or with him quite frequently. Before selecting your architect, compile a list of important considerations in YOUR order of priority. Below is a sample priority list for a successful business owner wanting to build a new office:

• Functionality
• Aesthetics
• Compliance with regulations
• Design cost
• Completion date
• Location
• Building energy cost
• Building maintenance cost
• Building cost

Once you compile your list, look for an architect who can help you reach your goals. A rule of thumb when choosing an architect is find someone who has created projects that excite you but also understands building costs. 

What your building team expects from you.

As the owner of the construction project, the team will be looking to you to answer their questions and provide a clear picture of what you envision. Having a solid plan and conveying your priorities will help control cost and keep the team moving forward. They look for you or your designee to attend job meetings, provide input on material and color options and quickly bring any changes to their attention so they can be reviewed and incorporated into the project and schedule. With the amount of factors that come into play in any construction project, perfection is rare. Your team will expect you to understand and accept reasonable standards of performance. You should be prepared to accept the risk of unpredictable conditions. Lastly, as the owner, it should your highest priority to assume all responsibility for your actions that can affect the job. This shows your personal integrity and respect for your team.

We stand by our word.

When constructing your building team, compile a group of reputable professionals who have the training and experience to meet your needs. At ACI, we have a solid team of Design/Build professionals that we work with regularly. We have completed hundreds of projects from start to finish. Our team is compiled of individuals and companies who are adaptable and work well with each other. We truly believe that team spirit is needed to build the best project for the least cost. To learn more about our team and how we can help you, contact a someone Associated Contracts Inc. today!

Be sure to check out other topics in this series:

Expansion Checklist Part 1: Preconstruction Considerations 

Expansion Checklist Part 2: Bidding Process vs. Design Build 

Expansion Checklist Part 3: Considerations When Planning your Budget for your Project

Whether you have worked with the National Joint Powers Alliance (NPJA) or are brand new to the community, you have probably noticed that it has undergone some major changes over the last year. NJPA is now Sourcewell, and they are celebrating 40 years of partnerships by making sure you know exactly who they are and how they contribute to this industry. 

Many times, the traditional bid process results in accepting the lowest bid and not getting the quality you want and need for your project. Additionally, it almost always takes much longer than anticipated to get a project completed. The concept behind Sourcewell is to act as a bridge between government, education, and nonprofit agencies and organizations that offer solutions, such as:

• Construction and landscape companies
• Food and food equipment services
• Fleet management services
• Outdoor equipment retailers
• Inventory management companies 
• Information Technology services
• AV equipment services for classrooms
• Office and home supplies distributors

With Sourcewell, there is a better way to buy the quality you need without the extra expenses and time delays you don’t need. State and local government agencies, educational institutions and school districts, and nonprofits can get quality construction without having to go through the low bid process. Sourcewell is a national cooperative purchasing organization that has done all the hard work for you. 

As a government agency, Sourcewell satisfies the bid requirement through its legislative authority for members across the country. They manage the competitive bid process, qualify all the bids, and award the successful bidder, all while maintaining the entire paperwork trail for each member. Sourcewell ensures its members get a best-value solution for quality products and services under a fixed price. They vet each and every vendor to ensure the best possible matches are recommended and taking the competition out of the solicitation process. 

After completing the competitive bid process for their Sourcewell contract, ACI’s partner, BlueScope Construction®, was successfully awarded their second design-build, turnkey construction contract. BlueScope Construction holds the Sourcewell contract and partners with ACI to supply the Butler® building factory-direct at a discount while ensuring the work is performed by local designers, subcontractors, and vendors. School Superintendent Virginia D. Potter at Bethel Local Schools in Ohio explains how buying construction through Sourcewell worked for her: 

Recently, I was confronted with the need to add a 3-bay addition to our district’s bus barn. Realizing that it was going to be a costly venture, I cringed at just the thought of starting the bidding process! I was on a time constraint and knew how long that process could take. It was at that time I was introduced to BlueScope Construction, a general contractor that specializes in commercial and government facilities. They offered complete planning and budgeting from project conception to completion. Unlike other companies, BlueScope Construction was part of Sourcewell, a national cooperative contract company. Sourcewell creates cooperative contract purchasing solutions on behalf of their members which include all government, education and nonprofit agencies nationwide. As a result of this alliance, I was able to forego the bidding process and start my project in half the time!

As someone who considers time a precious commodity, I readily encourage other district Superintendents to consider companies who are part of the Sourcewell process. Not only was their pricing competitive nationwide but also their ability to save time and, of course, some of the headaches that come with any sizable building project!

With over 67,000 member agencies nationwide, I’ve discovered that many of our local government entities are already Sourcewell members. Membership is free and there are no obligations for any government, education or nonprofit entity. These organizations use Sourcewell for their supplies, services, equipment, and construction for their facility needs. Whether you need a new building or an expansion to an existing building, ACI can help with a quality design-build solution. 

As the community grows, Sourcewell is also becoming an essential partner for vendor contracts, with a catalog of the most qualified companies to choose from based on needs and geography. Once you qualify to be listed as a Sourcewell-approved vendor, potential project partners are more likely to look at your offerings with a sense of trust because of Sourcewell’s extensive vetting process. Sourcewell offers both cooperative purchasing and solicitation services.

Contact an expert at ACI today to learn more about how Sourcewell contributes to alleviating the anxiety many organizations and vendors deal with during the traditional bid process, or to discuss how ACI, BlueScope, and Sourcewell can make your next construction project simple and successful.

When entering any kind of project, many details, steps and parties are involved. From compensation specifics, materials needed, timeline and much more, having as much detail and information written and agreed upon before the project begins is key. There are many benefits to having an established contract prior to the start of a new job. They are a crucial part of any job, no matter what size, because it binds each party to the agreed upon terms for the duration of the project.

What’s in a Contract?

There are many different types of contracts in the construction industry, which include many different specifications, depending on the project. Construction contracts clearly define both parties obligations, expectations and risks, they provide a road map for many of the questions often asked such as payment terms, completion dates, insurance requirements and scope of work. The contract should be made up of the following sections:

• Project overview and description
• Contract Price
• Payment terms
• Construction schedule
• Construction conditions and responsibilities

How contracts prevent problems down the road

The contract should be written up and agreed upon before any work begins. This way, no matter what the circumstances are, there is a plan already in place. Some common issues that contracts should also address are:

Time constraints: Having an agreed upon plan of action in case there is a disruption in the timeline ensures that work will still be completed in a timely manner. This also helps to keep the project flowing smoothly. 

Weather damage: When unforeseen circumstances arise, like a severe storm or flooding, have a plan for handling work delays and potential damage to the site. ACI always ensures builders risk insurance is held during all projects from start to finish. Builders risk insurance protects insurable interest in materials, fixtures, and/or equipment during the construction or renovation of your project. Some policies also cover theft, vandalism and damage to construction materials, fencing, scaffolding and landscaping. 

Unexpected work conditions: Sometimes it’s impossible to foresee problems that can occur out of the blue. Under most circumstances, the contractor assumes responsibility for this and figures out a solution, even if its at a cost to the client. Have a plan for which party will take on the responsibility for addressing and handling the problem.

American Institute of Architects (AIA) Standards

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is a standard in the industry. AIA and its members are committed to the highest ethical standards and full compliance with all laws and regulations, including federal and state antitrust laws.  Here at ACI, we utilize standard AIA contracts. We follow their guidelines and documentation to ensure we are providing the most comprehensive information, legal protection and fair terms to our clients. We also use AIA Sub-contractor agreements as well. This ties our Sub-contractors into the same terms and conditions we are subject too. 

We stand by our word

Having a well written, thorough contract in place prior to the start of a construction project is critical. It ensures all parties are on the same page and know who is responsible for what. It’s the assurance that you need to know that we are going to follow through and stand by what we promised you from the beginning. To learn more about contracts and how we can help you achieve your goals, contact a specialist at Associated Contracts Inc. today!

An effort by designers and builders to create buildings in a way that enhances the positive impact construction has on the environment. Let’s talk about some of the benefits of constructing an eco-friendly structure, or green building.

Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Buildings in the United States are responsible for nearly 40% of the country’s CO2 emissions, which is more than both the transportation and industrial sectors. LEED-certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) buildings reduce emissions by 34%, according to the US Department of Energy [1].

Utility Efficiency

LEED-certified buildings have been shown to consume 25% less energy and 11% less water than non-green buildings*. By installing systems that enable the purification and reuse of water, green buildings can use other sources, like rainwater, in order to reduce waste. Additionally, solar panels and specific window designs are used to increase energy efficiency and enhance natural lighting.

Reduced Maintenance Cost

By creating systems that use energy and water efficiently, companies can cut down on the amount of maintenance buildings require over the years. More natural light means a cheaper electric bill, and recycling water reduces the water bill. The initial installation of these systems might cost more in the beginning, but the savings on utility bills and maintenance fees will add up quickly.

Employee Health Improvement

Companies trying to cut back on their carbon footprint are more likely to use and provide materials that are safer for the people who inhabit green buildings on a daily basis. They avoid using plastics that are made with carcinogens that increase cancer risk and decrease air quality. Research also shows that employees with windows in their offices get almost an hour more sleep every night*.

Enhanced Indoor Environment

By using windows that increase the amount of natural sunlight that enters the building, green buildings use less artificial light, which reduces strain on employees and increases endorphins. Lower CO2 emissions and better ventilation always result in better air quality within the building that can potentially increase alertness and performance [2].

Lower Material Cost

By using recycled and reusable materials, green building companies can both reduce waste and lower the cost of materials used in construction. Some of the higher quality materials required to implement energy saving practices might cost more up front, but they will last much longer, thereby increasing long-term savings. Plus, eco-friendly buildings often use fewer materials overall in order to increase efficiency.

To learn more about how to make your next project a green building,  contact an expert at Associated Contractors, Inc. today.

Construction projects are faced with elements of constant change, from unexpected weather to surprise costs. With so many factors that can impact the progress of construction and create bumps along the way, it can be an uphill battle to keep a project running smoothly from start to finish. Here are a few tips to keep your next construction project on track.

Establish efficient communication.

At any given moment, multiple hands are simultaneously touching a construction project. From deadlines to budgets, constant and clear communication between everyone during all phases is key to successful completion. Anything that can be articulated in writing should be, in order to avoid any miscommunication. Project managers should regularly check in with their team, and weekly meetings should be held to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Keep a constant eye on the money.

One of the most common, and potentially detrimental problems that can trip up a project is a blown budget. Maintain at least a finger on the pulse of the spending so that any spending concerns can be immediately addressed. Plan the allocation of all funds in great detail, with contingency funds set aside for unknowns. Every dollar should be accounted for, and all budgets should be finalized before construction officially begins.

Set reasonable goals and expectations.

Every construction company is constantly striving to push themselves to be the best, but it’s crucial to make sure you are setting attainable goals. Be realistic about your schedule and budget. Create achievable expectations that motivate your team without discouraging them with a finish line that’s impossible to reach.

Always ask questions.

Every new project is an opportunity for professionals to grow and learn. When you’re unsure of the next step or how something should be done and decide not to ask, you lose a chance to improve. Not only that, but you can put a project at risk by moving forward without getting proper direction. Everyone involved in a construction project functions as a team, so don’t hesitate to reach out to your colleagues and ask questions. Their success is your success.

Never stop planning

Even the most meticulously pre-planned construction project never unfolds exactly the way it’s intended. Too many moving pieces are constantly in play, so changes and tweaks are always going to be necessary. That’s why team members and leaders should never leave planning mode. Keep revising, brainstorming, and communicating for the entirety of a project. Those slight adjustments you make in the middle of a project could be the difference between a mediocre and an exceptional result.

For more insight on how to keep your next construction project running smoothly, contact an expert at Associated Contractors, Inc. today.

You have probably heard by now that the design-build method of construction can save you time, money, and lots of potential headaches throughout the life of your next project. But what are the distinctions between design-build and regular construction? Let’s break down how these approaches compare to one another.

In traditional remodeling and renovation, often referred to as the “design-bid-build” process, three entities are involved in the project: you as the client (or owner), the designer (or architect), and the builder (or construction company). With this approach, the client works parallel but separately of each entity.

The Negotiation Phase

First, the design firm is chosen and hired to prepare the layout and design plans with the client. Once those are finalized, the owner collects bids for the construction phase and hopes the bids meet the budget. The architect and builder are under no obligation to one another, leaving the owner to bear the responsibility to hold both sides accountable. If the bids come in over budget then the owner must spend additional dollars on redesign in an effort to reach budget parameters.

With design-build, the whole bidding process is eliminated, because the architect and the builder are working together from the beginning. The owner selects one entity to complete every element of the project from planning, to prep, to completion. The designer and builder function under one contract with the owner, which allows the two teams to work together to meet budget guidelines and ensure the success of the project.

The Construction Phase

Throughout the life of the construction stage, the biggest difference an owner is likely to see after that initial decision-making process is the streamline of communication. Everyone can meet as one group to strategize and make selections, which can create a smoother journey with a smaller bottom line. Paint colors can be chosen as permits are acquired. The cost of each element of the project can be examined from all angles, which provides the owner with assurance that fewer changes will have to be made later on.

Once construction is underway, the architect is likely to be less involved in monitoring the project and how closely the work resembles the designed plan depending on the logistics of that individual contract. With design-build, you can expect both the designer and the builder to be discussing the details of the construction process every step of the way. This collaboration and consistency reduces bottlenecks, and creates a more cohesive work experience for everyone.

The Completion Phase

As the final touches are made on the finished product, the owner can work with both partners to verify that every element lives up to expectations, both stylistically and functionally. The design-build firm will work to make sure the results are satisfactory because one single contract means that they are responsible for every element of a project’s success.

Although each custom project will have its own idiosyncrasies and requirements; contracts, communication, and cohesion are the main factors that set the design-build process apart from traditional construction. There are several benefits to using the design-build approach in favor of the design-bid-build method, which we have provided a break down of in a previous article. Keeping yourself informed as a client on the definitive features of both processes will arm you with the tools you need to make the best decision for your next project.

For more information on how the design-build process can work for your next project, contact Associated Contractors today.