Effective cost management is crucial in a design-build project to make sure all project fees stay within budget while also meeting the client’s requirements. Typically, an initial budget is developed at the outset of the project. Cost estimates are refined as the design phase is finalized, and a contingency budget is also created to cover any unexpected costs as construction kicks off. All estimates should consider a balance of quality materials and methods against budget constraints. Once the construction phase kicks off, a good design-build firm will regularly track and report expenses and carefully evaluate how any project scope changes could alter costs. Ultimately, effective cost management involves efficiently managing resources, careful risk management, and closely collaborating across the design and construction teams to align on cost-saving opportunities and project goals.