Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) is a collaborative project delivery approach in construction where the contractor is engaged during the early stages of project development—often during the planning or design phase—rather than waiting until the design is complete and ready for tender. This method can have some advantages to the more traditional design-bid-build delivery approach, in particular with complex or high-risk projects. We will explore do’s and don’ts related to ECI and hopefully share lessons learned from topic table attendees.
Learning Objectives:
When is the right time in the project to bring in a Contractor for ECI? Is there such a thing as too early?
How to break down communication barriers typical of traditional contractor/owner relationships?
Transparent dialogue between all stakeholders—client, designer, contractor, and consultants—to align goals and expectations is necessary for successful ECI. Can engineers and contractors speak the same language?
Can the roles/boundaries/responsibilities become blurred during ECI?
Establishing clear boundaries and responsibilities to avoid confusion and overlap during the early stages is important.
Record Keeping is Very Important - Keep a record of all early-stage decisions, assumptions, and inputs to ensure continuity and accountability.
Encourage Value Engineering - Use the contractor’s input to explore cost-saving alternatives and innovative construction methods while maintaining the design intent.
Improved Constructability - Contractors provide input on construction methods, materials, sequencing, temporary works and logistics. This helps optimize the design for ease of construction, cost-efficiency, and schedule reliability.
Plan for Risk Management Early - Identify and mitigate risks collaboratively, using the contractor’s practical experience to foresee potential issues.
Don’t Assume Cost Certainty Too Early - Early estimates are subject to change; avoid locking in budgets before sufficient design development.
