Study Shows Rise in Progressive Design-Build Project Delivery

WASHINGTON, D.C, June 11, 2025 – The ACEC Research Institute has released a landmark report, “Progressive Design-Build: Practice, Perception, and Potential,” based on a comprehensive survey of 581 engineering firm leaders across 439 firms.

This pivotal Phase 1 report, led by Dr. Keith Molenaar, Dean of Engineering at University Colorado-Boulder, unveils industry insights on Progressive Design-Build (PDB), a project delivery method that is gaining traction for its collaborative structure and risk-balanced outcomes.

Rising Adoption and Strong Market Trends

According to the study, 76% of respondents have engaged in PDB projects, with 88% reporting increased project volumes and 81% noting rising construction values over the past five years. These trends are fueled by the demand for more integrated and transparent delivery models, especially in sectors such as transportation, water and wastewater, aviation, and both public and private buildings.

Industry Satisfaction Signals Confidence

A resounding 79% of industry stakeholders report being satisfied or very satisfied with the PDB approach. Minimal dissatisfaction (only 6%) underscores the growing reputation of PDB as a preferred method in markets that demand accountability, early collaboration, and flexible project evolution.

Key Benefits Driving Value

The report highlights several reasons behind PDB's success: 

• Early and Iterative Planning: Owners and builders collaborate from the outset to refine scope, cost, and schedule;

• Shared Risk and Transparency: PDB leads all delivery models in effective risk allocation (4.2/5 average rating), reducing conflicts and rework;

• Owner Empowerment: Continuous engagement enables cost-informed decisions and greater control;

• Strong Team Dynamics: Integrated teams foster trust and real-time problem solving.

Persistent Barriers and Future Opportunities

Despite its momentum, the report also identifies a few challenges: 

• Regulatory Constraints: Public sector projects constrained by FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulations).

• Insurance Hurdles: Smaller firms struggle to meet high policy requirements.

• Knowledge Gaps: Limited owner familiarity and institutional inertia hinder wider adoption. 

The ACEC Research Institute is calling on industry stakeholders to participate in the next research phase by contributing case studies of completed PDB projects. These will help refine best practices and inform actionable guidance on equitable risk-sharing, insurance strategies, dispute avoidance, and pricing transparency.

“Progressive Design-Build offers a transformative approach to delivering infrastructure and buildings,” said Daphne Bryant, executive director of the ACEC Research Institute. “With the right policy updates and increased awareness, PDB can help the industry build smarter, faster, and with less conflict.”

To learn more or to contribute a case study, visit this page from the University of Colorado, Boulder.