Abstract:
Clients and Design-Build (DB) contractors are two key stakeholders in DB projects, and contribute
significantly to the successful project performance. This study aims to identify and compare such key
competences in the construction market of the PRC. After the survey of available literature and face-toface
interviews, a two-round Delphi questionnaire survey was conducted to identify the key
competences of clients and DB contractors in DB projects. Relative importance of these identified
competences were ranked and compared. The questionnaire results indicated distinct differences
between the key competences of clients and that of contractors. The contractor’s key competences
emphasise on DB experience, corporate management capability, building and design expertise,
financial capability, enterprise qualification and reputation. While the client’s competences focus on
the ability to clearly define the project scope and requirements, financial capacity, contract
management ability, adequate staff, effective coordination with DB contractor and similar DB
experience. Both clients and DB contractors should clearly understand the competence requirements in
DB projects and possess all the necessary competences for the successful outcome of DB projects. The
identification of these key competences provides clients and DB contractors with indicators to assess
their capabilities before going for the DB option. Furthermore, the comparison of competences for
clients and DB contractors will result in better understanding of DB system and improve the
communication between these stakeholders.
