EPCC used a different process to build the Lower Valley Campus, called the design-build delivery method. Under this concept, the owner employs one management firm to design and build a project. The management firm obtains all necessary architectural, engineering, consultant, and construction services. The owner is not involved in any bid processes. Exhibit 5-9 details the architect fees and change orders as a percentage of the cost of construction for projects completed or under construction from 1996 to 1999.
Standards provide guidelines to be used in designing specific building components or systems.
By using pre-determined standards, architectural and engineering design time is reduced and the need for redesigning every building component on every building project is eliminated. Standardization is most commonly determined by researching and evaluating existing facilities to identify building components that produce quality operation and cost effectiveness. Typical standardized items include space allocations, classroom sizes, HVAC systems, exterior and interior finishes, plumbing and lighting fixtures, and other items that produce optimum value in cost and operation. A survey of five institutions similar in nature to EPCC indicates that three of the institutions have some form of design and construction standards in place. The institutions surveyed were Alamo Community College, Austin Community College, North Harris Montgomery Community College, San Jacinto Community College and Tarrant County Community College.