IDEAS / Commercial

Design and build in Taiwan: compare the scope

Make inclusions visible

Ask what drawings, approvals, specialists, furniture and handover information are included.

Agree decision points

Separate long-lead choices from decisions that can remain open longer.

Define handover

Agree how inspections, outstanding items, operating information and responsibility transfer will be handled.

Compare scope before comparing totals

Put competing proposals into one schedule. Separate design fees, construction, furniture, technology, specialist equipment and allowances. Ask what level of drawings supports the price and which items remain provisional. If two totals are different, identify the quantities, specifications and responsibilities behind the difference. This is more useful than asking each team to match a number without knowing what will be removed.

Agree how the project finishes

Define practical completion, the defect review, documentation and the party responsible for each outstanding item. Keep a decision log during design and construction so substitutions and approvals can be traced. Before handover, request the information your operator needs to maintain the space, including equipment instructions and relevant supplier contacts. A coordinated delivery process should make both the design intent and the remaining responsibilities understandable.