Which statement accurately reflects the CM's role in designer selection?

Which statement accurately reflects the CM's role in designer selection?

• A. Once the selection is made, the CM may also assist the Owner in contract negotiations.
• B. The CM cannot participate in the Designer Selection.
• C. When the delivery method chosen requires a separate design contract, the CM can assist the Owner in selecting a Designer. This includes developing RFP and criteria to be used in evaluating the proposals.
• D. The CM then assists the Owner in reviewing proposals, conducting interviews and evaluating the shortlisted candidates to make a final selection.

Answer: (B)

The CM’s role in designer selection is limited because procurement of the design professional is an Owner responsibility, and keeping that process independent helps ensure fair competition and avoids conflicts of interest. The CM is intended to advise and coordinate design and construction, provide input on buildability, cost, and scheduling, and manage the project once a designer is engaged. Involvement in evaluating proposals, interviewing candidates, or making the final designer choice could bias the process or create a conflict of interest, since the CM has an ongoing relationship with the Owner and a stake in the project timeline and cost. Therefore, the selection of the designer should be conducted by the Owner (often with an independent committee), while the CM contributes after selection to design review, coordination, and later contract administration as appropriate.

The CM’s role in designer selection is limited because procurement of the design professional is an Owner responsibility, and keeping that process independent helps ensure fair competition and avoids conflicts of interest. The CM is intended to advise and coordinate design and construction, provide input on buildability, cost, and scheduling, and manage the project once a designer is engaged. Involvement in evaluating proposals, interviewing candidates, or making the final designer choice could bias the process or create a conflict of interest, since the CM has an ongoing relationship with the Owner and a stake in the project timeline and cost. Therefore, the selection of the designer should be conducted by the Owner (often with an independent committee), while the CM contributes after selection to design review, coordination, and later contract administration as appropriate.