The first and most critical part of your construction project is selecting the members of your build team. The team should include the owner (you or your representative), the architect, and the construction provider. Bringing this team together in the early stage of the project allows all parties to contribute their specific expertise, assuring a more successful outcome. As the owner, it is your responsibility to vet potential design and construction professionals. When starting the review process, keep these three points in mind:
1. Develop a list of requirements for each team member to ensure the project meets your goals now and in the future.
2. Don’t be in a rush – take the time you need to interview prospective vendors to avoid any regrets.
3. While cost is important, base the final choice on the best value rather than the lowest bidder.
The following are what to look for in those areas.
The Architect
To develop the list of architectural firms to review, begin by reaching out to business associates to get the names of potential candidates. When interviewing architectural firms, ask how they work with a client. After all, while you want their input and expert advice, it is your project, and the design team needs to be open to fulfilling your goals. In addition to evaluating credentials portfolios, ask for references with buildings like your project and speak to these customers about their experience.
The Construction Provider
Capability, experience, reputation, and dependability are key factors in selecting the contractor. Whether it’s construction management, design-build, or general construction, a qualified builder will be able to recommend the best delivery method for your project. The construction vendor should have in-house services and a qualified network of trade contractors to provide all the required services. Determine that they have the proper safety program, licenses, and insurance. As with the architectural team, contact their referrals to ensure this critical choice will perform as promised.
Gundlach Champion has been providing construction services with exceptional quality and value to a diverse range of clients across the Upper Peninsula of Michigan for over 125 years. The GCI team brings over 350 years of combined experience to every commercial construction project, from new buildings to renovations.