CPO has extensive experience in General Contractor/Construction Manager (GC/CM) contracting, Design Build and Job Order Contracting (JOC) as alternate methods of providing public works contracts.  We provide mentoring services to other public owners interested in leardning how to use these procedures. GC/CM and JOC methods are particularly useful when the facility must remain open while the work is in progress.

Job Order Contracting

Job Order Contracting is for projects valued up to $150,000.

What is JOC?

JOC was devised in the 1980s as a way to overcome problems with the traditional Deisgn-Bid-Build method, removing the costly and time-consuming bid process for small projects.  JOC allows for the establishment of fixed prices for units of work and materials, which makes arriviing as a fixed price for each job quick and easy.  This process also fosters a long-term relationship with the Job Order Contractor, improving understanding of needs and communication with the owner.

GC/CM and Design Build

GC/CM and Design Build are for projects valued over $10 million.

What are GC/CM and Design Build?

Under certain circumstances, the General Contractor/Construction Manager (GC/CM) or Design Build forms of procurement may best serve the public interest.  These processes enable the public owner to contract with both design and construction firms at the same time, enhancing collaboration.  Having the construction firm involved in project design helps ensure that budgets and schedules are met, complicated design issues are identified and resolved early, expectations are made clear from the start of a project and teamwork begins at project conception.

The state of Washington has detailed the process in RCW 39.10 Alterative Public Works.

CPO can help you...

• Develop the Request for Qualifications, Request for Proposals process and process for evaluation.
• Develop contracts.
• Provide guidance in completing the public notification process mandated by RCW 39.10.
• Provide examples of circumstances when an alternate procurement method has worked successfully.
• Share our own experiences in administering these types of contracts.

Contact Us

Please contact Eric Smith, Associate Director of Capital Projects South, to learn more about our services.  He may be contacted at ecsmith@uw.edu or (206) 616-5497.