Not at all. In many cases smaller firms can partner with other firms to complete a project. For example, when a small design firm does not have construction capabilities, it may find a construction partner and propose on a project together as one entity. Similarly, a construction firm that needs a design partner may form a team to compete for a project. Either of these arrangements can provide benefits like those found by a single integrated design-build firm. Lastly, small firms can participate as specialty engineering or construction subcontractors to the design-build team.
Formerly Water Design-Build Council