In today's global economy, it is imperative for manufacturers to
maintain their competitive edge in the marketplace. When holding onto
that edge requires a new facility, cost and time are the two largest
considerations. The process of designing, permitting, and constructing a
new facility requires several months depending on the size of the
project. Retaining an experienced design-build contractor from the
outset will result in an expedited design, permitting, and construction
process, thereby saving time and money.
When
selecting a qualified design-build contractor, seek a firm that values
early and consistent communication. One of the most important
ingredients to a successful fast-track project is clear communication
between the owner/manufacturer and the construction team. The
manufacturer should outline the needs and requirements of the project
while also educating the contractor on his or her manufacturing
process. This enables the contractor to better select a team of
qualified subcontractors that fit the project's specific needs.
Consistent communication throughout the design-build process also
reduces the number of changes, which can delay the schedule and
potentially add cost.
Site
selection is a significant factor in the efficient completion of a new
building, and bringing the contractor or qualified real estate
professional in to assist with this selection can be advantageous. A
contractor or real estate professional can offer assistance during the
due diligence process and recognize other areas of concern.
Once
the land has been secured and the contractor has been chosen, it's time
to begin design and secure permits. Design and permitting can be a
lengthy process, sometimes taking months to complete. One way to
expedite construction is to secure separate permits for each phase of
construction as allowed by the municipality. In lieu of waiting for a
full building permit, the contractor can seek a grading permit, a
foundation permit, and a shell and core permit separately. Obtaining
multiple permits allows construction to begin while the remaining
phases are still being designed and permitted.
So
while the foundation and grading are underway, the shell permit is in
the process of approval. There may be additional permit review fees
incurred by this fast-track permitting process; however, this cost is
nominal and not nearly as significant as months of additional
construction time.
The design-build process enables a manufacturer to occupy the new
facility in an expedited time frame, which is better suited for the
manufacturer's current, expanding, and long-term needs. After all, time
is money - particularly in this high-speed global marketplace. An
experienced contractor and contracting team are key factors in the
successful completion of any new manufacturing facility.