Integrated Project Delivery Method Fast-Tracks Bayhealth Sussex Medical Campus Construction

[media-credit name=”Bayhealth” align=”aligncenter” width=”800″][/media-credit]

High expectations, a limited budget, and a short timeframe for design and construction were some of the challenges facing Bayhealth’s facilities leadership when determining how to make the new Sussex Campus a reality. The old tried-and-true methods for delivering projects wouldn’t fully address these challenges. The answer: Integrated Project Delivery (IPD). IPD leverages early knowledge and expertise from the owner, designers, and builders, along with the latest computer-aided technologies to produce cost-effective results. Built on collaboration and trust, it incentivizes the owner, designer, and builder to focus on project outcomes rather than individual goals. Ultimately, this translates into greater project value for all.

Bayhealth (the owner), CannonDesign (the designer/ engineer), Whiting-Turner (the builder/construction manager), and 10 trade partners/contractors entered into the same contract. “With one contract signed by all — versus several, which is what typically occurs for a project like this — every firm shares the same risk and reward,” explained Whiting- Turner Vice President Josh Fanelli. CannonDesign Senior Vice President Michael Yoshimura says the single contract also removes many legal barriers. “IPD allows us the freedom to share the building [3D computer] model, and use the trades and their expertise, so the project is completed in the most efficient, cost-effective way possible.”

Fanelli says the IPD process fosters better communication and collaboration between the project partners and significantly increases end-user involvement. “The IPD arrangement creates a true team atmosphere, where all parties’ interests are aligned to the same schedule and financial goals, which encourages behaviors that facilitate progress and optimizes results.” It also involves informed decision making from the beginning, and the close collaboration eliminates waste in the design process by allowing real-time data sharing between the design and construction teams. This is enabled by collocating the owner, designer, and builder in a “Big Room,” which further promotes teamwork, removes silos, and increases chances of success.

The community benefits from IPD as well. “Because IPD leads to significant cost savings, more programs can be offered,” said Whiting-Turner Senior Superintendent Chris Mitchell. Bayhealth Health Campus Project Director Jerry Peters said, “The IPD process has allowed us to maximize our budget, reduce construction time, and deliver on clinical and community expectations. Upon completion, we’ll have a state-of-the-art facility that exceeds current needs, and is designed to grow and evolve with changes in healthcare delivery and the community. The IPD team has done an outstanding job making what was imagined come to life.”

Visit BayhealthSussexCampus.org to learn more about the project and sign up for updates.

Source: Bayhealth

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