One drawback of which type of Requirements is that key concepts may be determined without involvement of the Design-Builder team?

• A. Prescriptive
• B. Performance
• C. Bridging
• D. Open-Book

Answer: (A)

Prescriptive requirements specify exact materials, products, and installation methods, leaving little room for design exploration. Because those details are spelled out upfront, the major design concepts can be determined by the owner or the spec writer before the Design-Builder is brought into the project. That limits the Design-Builder’s ability to apply its integrated approach—collaborating on performance, constructability, and value during concept development. In contrast, performance-based requirements define the desired outcomes and allow the team to determine the means to achieve them, bridging documents involve the Design-Builder earlier in the design process, and open-book relates to pricing transparency rather than restricting concept development.