S. M. Wilson understands that every client’s needs are unique. There is not a “one size fits all”. We take the time to get to know our clients, and that’s why we offer several different delivery methods, so you can choose which construction delivery method is right for your project.
General Contracting
General Contracting
In this traditional delivery, a fixed construction amount is set to cover the entire cost of the project based upon the Architect’s construction documents. Development of the specifications and drawings are overseen by the Architect only without any construction input during design.
What you need to know:
- One of the most familiar delivery methods.
- Fixed construction cost will be created for the documents that were produced.
- The Owner has less involvement after bid approval.
- The Owner generally accepts the lowest, most responsive bid.
- No ability for shared savings.
- Does not allow for fast tracking or constructability input.
Construction Management at Risk
Construction Management at Risk
The Construction Manager is responsible for both the design and construction phases of the building process and assists the Owner in arranging for and coordinating efforts with the Architects, Engineers and Consultants used in the project.
With the CM at Risk delivery method, the Owner has separate contracts with the Architect and CM, resulting in a built-in checks and balances system. Provided the Owner maintains a strong presence throughout this process, the Owner-Architect-Construction team works together collaboratively toward a common project goal.
What you need to know:
- Construction Manager brings their knowledge to the Architect early in the design and pre-construction phase.
- A system is implemented which controls personnel, money and materials to work directly for the Owner’s interests.
- Design and construction proceed concurrently, saving time and therefore, money.
- Opportunity for shared savings.
- CM and Architect are selected based on qualifications.
- All subcontracting work is competitively bid with Owner input.
- Allows for fast tracking.
To learn more about CM at Risk vs. General Contracting, click here.
To learn more about CM at Risk for Public Entities, click here.
For more information on the CM at Risk delivery method,
contact Kristyn Newbern at [email protected] or 314.633.9641.
Construction Management Agency
Construction Management Agency

Typically reserved for public agency projects, a delivery method is similar to the Construction Management at Risk in that the Owner, Architect and CM work together collaboratively to produce a successful project. The CMa delivery method differs from CM at Risk in that the Owner holds the contracts directly with the trade contractors.
What you need to know:
- Construction Manager brings knowledge to the Architect early in the pre-referendum, design and pre-construction phases.
- A system is implemented which controls personnel, money and materials to work directly for the Owner’s interests.
- Design and construction proceed concurrently, saving time and therefore, money.
- Opportunity for shared savings.
- CM and Architect are selected based on qualifications.
- All subcontracting work is competitively bid with Owner input.
- Allows for fast tracking.
- CMa is the budget gatekeeper.
- Owner holds trade contracts.
Design/Build
Design/Build
The design/build approach simply means consolidating the architectural design and construction services, making both phases the responsibility of one single provider. We select a qualified team of Architects, Engineers and key Subcontractors which best fit our clients’ goals and objectives for budget, schedule and quality. In many cases, the design/build process provides the simplest and most economical method of project completion and has the added benefit of single source accountability.
However, Owners may be concerned that they lose some control and/or checks and balances with this process. As long as the Owner maintains a key presence throughout the design and bidding phase of the program, the design/build team can ensure the project scope is as desired and fits within the overall budget.
What you need to know:
- Single point of contact for entire design and construction process.
- Economical delivery of design and construction services.
- A ‘hands-off’ approach to the program, if desired by the Owner.
- Opportunity for shared savings.
- Opportunity for fast tracking.
- Design is complete at the GMP – no change orders.
Integrated Project Delivery
Integrated Project Delivery
Integrated project delivery increases value to the Owner by maximizing efficiency throughout design, pre-construction and construction process. Key participants, including the CM, Architect and Major Subcontractors (typically MEPFP & Structural), are involved early in the design process to give input on project design, scheduling and budget. The project is jointly managed by the project team, resulting in any shared risk or rewards by the team members.
What you need to know:
- One of the newest delivery methods.
- Higher levels of coordination and transparency amongst team members.
- Early involvement of key participants leads to fewer design revisions and lower costs to the Owner.
- Ability to fast track.
- Opportunity for cost savings and shared risk.
- Minimal owner involvement.
- Highly efficient method.