Cost Analysis Between SABER and Design Bid Build Construction

The purpose of this research was to perform a cost analysis between DBB and SABER construction. The research involved traveling to Wright-Patterson and Holloman Air Force Bases to gather project information on comparable projects completed by both methods. There were a total of 46 projects collected from both bases. A methodology was developed to compare the projects completed. Projects were divided into categories containing similar types of construction. Data from the project was then used to calculate a unit cost for the project. Project comparability was demonstrated by showing the projects constructed by each method completed a similar type and scope of work. This consisted of showing commonality in key work elements contained in projects completed by both methods. Time and cost growth were also compared for DBB versus SABER. Statistical test of the means for each method demonstrated that SABER was cheaper but not at a statistically significant level. SABER construction also performed better in cost and time growth for most instances. The research showed that SABER had statistically significant lower time growth that DBB at Wright-Patterson AFB.