What Makes Design-Build Different? A Deep Dive With DBIA

Design-build is gaining momentum across the construction industry, and for good reason: it delivers projects faster, fosters collaboration, and reduces risk. But what really sets design-build apart from traditional delivery methods—and how does technology amplify its benefits? In this episode of Digital Builder, host Eric Thomas sits down with Brian Skripac, Director of Virtual Design and Construction at the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA), to unpack the fundamentals of design-build, bust common myths, and explore how digital tools are transforming project delivery. Recorded live at Autodesk University 2025 in Nashville, this conversation dives into why design-build is more than a contract—it’s a cultural shift toward transparency, trust, and innovation. We discuss: • What makes design-build different from design-bid-build (DBB) and construction manager at risk (CMAR) • Common misconceptions about design-build—and the truth behind them • How technology and shared models break down silos and improve coordination • Why early collaboration leads to better outcomes and fewer surprises • Practical advice for teams looking to adopt design-build successfully Digital Builder is hosted by Eric Thomas of Autodesk. --------------------------------- ▬ Listen to the Digital Builder Podcast 🎧 ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Apple Podcasts: https://autode.sk/3Ye49S2 Spotify: https://autode.sk/3kB3IDG Full playlist on YouTube: https://autode.sk/3J178Ja ▬ Social Media ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Facebook: https://autode.sk/3ms6dJx Twitter: https://autode.sk/41nSQbY Instagram: https://autode.sk/41ckKIf LinkedIn: https://autode.sk/3MMFqSZ ▬ Subscribe ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Subscribe: https://autode.sk/YouTubeSubscribe ▬Website ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ Learn more about Autodesk Construction Cloud: https://autode.sk/3UDtKnd