DBIA Engages FMI to Clarify Owner Advisor Role in Design-Build

DBIA has engaged FMI Corporation to assess the owner advisor role in Design-Build and help owners better identify the skills needed for successful project delivery.

As Design-Build continues to expand, particularly with the increased use of Progressive Design-Build, owners are taking on more complex responsibilities throughout project acquisition and delivery. Industry feedback has consistently highlighted variability in how the OA role is defined and executed. In many cases, no single advisor is responsible for guiding owners through the full Design-Build process, leaving gaps in coordination, decision making and overall project alignment. Without clear expectations and competencies, owners are left to navigate critical decisions without consistent guidance, increasing the likelihood of misalignment and underperformance.

FMI will lead a structured, multi-phase research effort designed to gather both quantitative and qualitative insights from across the design and construction industry. The study will assess market demand, define the competencies required for effective owner advisors in Design-Build and evaluate how those needs are being met.

Findings from this research will help inform targeted education for owners and industry professionals, supporting stronger alignment with the competencies required for effective design-build delivery. The project is expected to be completed by late summer.