01658092

Component

Design-build (D-B) project delivery has been used in the highway construction industry for approximately three decades. Currently, more than 45 state departments of transportation (DOTs) have the authority to use D-B for their transportation projects. However, D-B is relatively new to the majority of DOT staff. In fact, many state DOTs are still developing an institutional culture to implement D-B for their construction capital program. This paper explores and documents the process and existing practices of staffing needs for implementing the D-B program in Washington State DOT (WSDOT). Data were collected from a literature review, in-depth interviews, and case studies. A total of 18 interviews (three interviews with WSDOT Deputy State Construction Engineer, Assistant State Construction Engineer, and State Design-Build Engineer and 15 interviews with industry representatives who have performed work for WSDOT) were conducted to explore the staffing practices for D-B. Six case studies that are representative of a cross-section of WSDOT D-B experience were conducted. These case studies were selected based on project size (small, medium, and large), project type (roadway, interchange, and bridge), geographical locations (urban and rural), and other criteria (funding sources or types of program). In addition to reviewing the available project data and documentation, the research team conducted in-depth interviews with the project managers for each of these case studies. The results showed that the critical staffing issue involves the learning curve of inexperienced staff being challenged by the differing roles and responsibilities on a D-B project. The effective staffing practices for D-B should consider implementing the following areas: (1) internal staffing and organization; (2) staffing experience and expertise; (3) continuity of project teams; (4) training and staff development; and (5) appropriate use of consultants.

This paper was sponsored by TRB committee AFH15 Standing Committee on Project Delivery Methods.

18-06477

English

16p

2018

Transportation Research Board 97th Annual Meeting

Digital/other

Maps; References; Tables

Case studies; Design build; Road construction; Road construction workers; Selection and appointment

Washington State Department of Transportation

Administration and Management; Construction; Highways; Planning and Forecasting

Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting 2018 Paper #18-06477

TRIS, TRB, ATRI

Jan 8 2018 11:40AM