Problems encountered by owners of design–build projects in Singapore

Even though design–build (DB) arrangements have several advantages, project owners are not using them to a large extent. This may be due to some inherent problems that owners face in their DB projects. This study investigates the problems and difficulties that Singaporean owners face in DB projects and how project managers can help them overcome these problems. Data were collected from public and private sector owners using a structured questionnaire via post and email. The collected data were subjected to statistical analyses. The results show that owners face significant problems in the whole development process of DB projects, especially during tender preparation and evaluation stages. Owners that do not have in-house project management face significantly more problems than those with in-house expertise. Generally, there were no differences on the problems faced by the public and private sector owners. Recommendations are made on how project managers can help owners overcome some of the problems they face in DB projects.