Integrated Project Delivery (IPD): Why You Should Be Using It

Integrated Project Delivery (IPD): Why You Should Be Using It

In this blog, I’ll explore what Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) is, share my experiences with it, and outline its key benefits. If you’re interested in learning advanced techniques to optimize construction projects, this blog is for you.

My Experience Learning About IPD

I was introduced to IPD while working at DPR Construction. Two major resources that helped me were the book Integrating Project Delivery and a course I took to earn my DBIA (Design-Build Institute of America) certification. The DBIA focuses on collaborative project delivery methods, including design-build, CM at Risk, and IPD.

During my time at DPR, I had the opportunity to work on several “IPD light” projects. While these didn’t involve a formal Integrated Form of Agreement (IFOA) or shared risk/reward structures, they embraced IPD behaviors, such as:

• Collaborative kickoffs.
• Team-building exercises.
• Collocation (integrating teams physically and digitally).
• Designing with the end in mind using advanced technology.

The result? Beautifully orchestrated, integrated project environments.

5 Key Concepts of IPD

Here are the foundational pillars of IPD:

• Collaboration:
  Teamwork is emphasized across all stakeholders, fostering an integrated approach to problem-solving and execution.
• Shared Risk and Reward:
  While often formalized through an IFOA, the principle focuses on optimizing the project as a whole rather than individual components.
• Early Stakeholder Involvement:
  Engaging key participants—contractors, end users, facilities managers, and trade partners—early ensures alignment and smooth execution.
• Lean Principles:
  Incorporating lean methodologies, such as Takt, Last Planner, and Scrum, drives efficiency and value delivery.
• Technology and Data Sharing:
  Leveraging integrated communication systems and advanced technology supports a unified approach to design and construction.

The Best Way to Implement IPD

IPD typically starts with project inception and extends to the beginning of execution. However, it doesn’t always provide detailed guidance on production planning. That’s where integrating IPD with the Integrated Production Control System (IPCS) becomes invaluable. Combining IPD with tools like Takt planning, Last Planner, and the First Planner System helps create robust preconstruction and execution strategies.

IPD can be implemented effectively through two primary methods:

• IPD Light using CM at Risk contracts.
• Full IPD with an IFOA.

Both approaches enable teams to optimize collaboration and outcomes.

What an IPD Project Looks Like

If you’re working on an IPD project, here’s what you can expect:

• Collaborative team structures.
• Shared risk and reward environments.
• Lean construction principles.
• Building Information Modeling (BIM) integration.
• Regular communication in “big room” settings.
• Unified scheduling for design, fabrication, and construction.
• Focus on lifecycle cost optimization.
• Sustainability practices embedded in the design.
• Advanced technology integration.

To illustrate, think of non-IPD environments as playing nine soccer games simultaneously from individual tents, communicating only via email. In contrast, IPD is like playing one soccer game on a shared field, with open communication and a unified strategy.

Benefits of Implementing IPD

• Enhanced Collaboration:
  Teams work better together, from owners and designers to trade partners and vendors.
• Increased Efficiency:
  Phased designs and proximity-driven teamwork lead to streamlined operations.
• Improved Project Outcomes:
  Studies from the Lean Construction Institute (LCI) show significant gains when IPD is implemented.
• Enhanced Innovation:
  Collaborative environments foster creative problem-solving.
• Risk Mitigation:
  Teams collectively identify and address potential issues early.
• Faster Project Delivery:
  Proven by numerous case studies and data.
• More Sustainable Projects:
  IPD facilitates integrated design, fabrication, and installation for eco-friendly outcomes.
• Happier Teams:
  Stakeholders enjoy the process and build strong, long-term relationships.