An Introduction to Integrated Project Delivery

Download the full Introduction to Integrated Project Delivery 2018 PDF document.

Introduction -- BCCA Policy
The BCCA does not promote one project delivery method over another, but advocates for a complete understanding of all methods available to an owner.  BCCA’s opinion is that the industry should proceed with caution and be aware that IPD has many challenges to our standards and practices for market fairness.  We should work with public owners to advocate for the development of an education program for all the stakeholders in IPD.

What is IPD?
Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) is a form of procurement that utilizes a project team led by the builder and assembled very early in the process -- as early as the schematic design phase. A dedicated project team can yield efficiencies on large complex projects with demanding standards and schedules.

The principles of IPD are aligned with Lean construction principles, but the contracts used for IPD are very different. IPD agreements mean consultants are expected to shoulder a great deal more risk than usual, which may have repercussions with insurers: there are no underwriters providing bonds for IPD projects. IPD uses multi-party agreements that put the constructor, consultants and key subcontractors on the same Terms and Conditions through a single contract. This avoids the owner having to act as the conduit for communication and resolution of problems between team members.  IPD may not suitable for small projects with a set budget, and should be undertaken with caution by contractors inexperienced in the method.

IPD is considered positive for innovation, giving contractors, sub-contractors and suppliers early input into design. 

The IPD process doesn’t allow for an open market competition. IPD as a policy or prevalent procurement model in the public sector would likely exclude the vast majority of contractors. 

The Risks of IPD
IPD contracts move risks to contractors and consultants rather than owners.  The extent of the risk is greatly increased when a contractor has limited expertise in implementing IPD.  In the worst case scenarios, contractors can be bankrupted by other companies that don’t perform.

Government owners risk a process compromise because implementation of IPD may assist public owners in preferences for some contractors not based on merit. This is contrary to a public owner procurement policy that is fair, open and transparent.

Current Market Activity (BC)
IPD began in the UK and is slowly making ground in Canada, with some large constructors advocating hard for increased use and making progress with public owners. There are few IPD experts in the BC market, or in Canada. Those contractors leading the charge anticipate a competitive advantage:  Owners who wish to pursue IPD automatically limit the contractors that are qualified to bid on their project.

In general, early adopters of IPD are larger companies with the resources to undertake marketing and advocacy campaigns to promote their preferred project delivery method.  This activity can give the impression that there is more adoption in the market overall than is actually the case.

bcca-logo-bug-white.png
September 20, 2019

BCCA Annual Report 2019

The BCCA Annual Report 2019 covers the fiscal year of April 1, 2018, to March 31, 2019. This report includes a note from the Board and President, updates on BCCA Programs & Services, Affiliations, our Association Network, and more.
Read More
bcca-logo-bug-white(1).png
September 24, 2018

BCCA Annual Report 2018

The BCCA Annual Report 2018 covers the fiscal year of April 1, 2017 to March 31, 2018. In this year, the BCCA Board approved a new three year strategic plan focusing on four key pillars: Construction Projects, Skilled Workforce, Technology and Community.
Read More
March 05, 2018

An Introduction to Integrated Project Delivery

The BCCA does not promote one project delivery method over another, but advocates for a complete understanding of all methods available to an owner. BCCA’s opinion is that the industry should proceed with caution and be aware that IPD has many challenges to our standards and practices for market fairness. We should work with public owners to advocate for the development of an education program for all the stakeholders in IPD.
Read More
bcca-logo-bug-white(1).png
January 31, 2018

BCCA Annual Report 2017

The BCCA Annual Report 2017 covers a significant and transformative year for the BC Construction Association. This report covers a note from the Board and President, Programs & Services, Partnerships, and our Association Network.
Read More
report-procuring-innovation-260x336.png
May 17, 2017

Procuring Innovation in Construction

This new report is called “Procuring Innovation in Construction” and lays out the case for the sector to recognize the procurement process as the key for driving innovative projects and sector development.
Read More
reports-resources.png
December 01, 2016

Corporate Social Responsibility

BCCA recognizes that corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a rapidly evolving issue and affects companies differently depending on their size, location and specialization.
Read More
report-innovation-project-260x336(2).png
February 18, 2016

Construction Innovation in BC

The BC Construction Association is pleased to lead the charge on this important issue, and proud to have co-funded this report. We look forward to continuing the conversation and welcome all stakeholders to join us.
Read More
sustainability-report-resources.png
January 01, 2016

Green Building Rating Systems

Green buildings, also known as sustainable buildings, are structures that are designed to use valuable resources such as energy, water, materials, and land more efficiently than buildings that are simply built to code.
Read More
report-government-ita-training-260x350(0).png
February 01, 2014

The ITA Review

The province also published this independent review of the ITA, with 29 recommendations made to improve outcomes of the training system.
Read More
resources-performance-study-reports.png
February 01, 2014

Light House Sustainable Building Centre

Light House is a not-for-profit company dedicated to advancing green building and the sustainable infrastructure and economic systems into which green buildings are intrinsically integrated.
Read More
blueprint-resources-reports.png
January 01, 2014

B.C.'s Skills for Jobs Blueprint

This is a major new initiative to revamp the way BC educates students from kindergarten through post-secondary, putting increased emphasis on skills training.
Read More
resources-reports-job-opportunities.png
September 24, 2012

Job Opportunities & Business Succession

Job Opportunities and Business Succession is a thorough report on the impact of retirements, the state of business opportunities (for business sale, transfer or close), and discussion of business transition, planning tools, and other considerations for business owners.
Read More