CJE Newsletter

Summer 2008 Volume 10, Number 7

Center for CHAIRMAN’S CORNER
Job Order Contracting
By David Carrithers
Excellence
1425 K Street, NW, Suite 350
Washington, DC 20005
Job Order Contracting
Phone: (202) 587-5721
Fax: (202) 587-5601
Responds, Performs and Builds
info@JOCexcellence.org
A s a steward and servant to CJE, I continue to be excited and challenged.
2008 is turning out to be a year of change in the markets we serve, the
Editors: country’s leadership and the continued increase in demand for what we
Lissa Adams
do as an industry.
Contributors:
David Carrithers Job Order Contract-
Vince Duobinis ing is growing
Rick Farrag nationally, evolving
Bob Gair beyond an alternative
Carol Greb
to a mainstay of
Louise Henry
how publicly-funded
campuses, facilities
Greg Ohrn
and infrastructures
Greg Smith
manage the backlog
of construction proj
CJE Committees: ect demands. It has
• Legislation: been raised by mem
Mike Ladino
bers of CJE that they 2008 Industry Chair David Carrithers on the Great Wall
• Education: are seeing a 50% or in 2007. Read more on his mission on JOC to China on
Bob Gair
greater increase in pages 16–18.
• Membership and Industry Chair: the demand for job
David Carrithers
order contracting presentations and requests for information across
• Past Industry Chair Election: the country. Universities, municipalities, K-12 elementary schools,
Ron Ecker
community colleges, federal agencies and the Department of Defense
• Industry Chair Elect: are all looking at job order contracting programs as a tool to help them
Bob Gair
respond to a wide variety of construction, renovation, rehabilitation and
• Treasurer: repair needs. The future acceptance, use and dependency on job order
Clint Owings
contracting is evident and growing.
• Secretary:
Carol Greb With the current economic pressures and concerns underway, we will see
• Members at Large: an increasing interest in job order contracting. Why?
Rick Farrag, Greg Smith continued on next page

REMEMBER: Donate your past ASU funds/refunded dues to the New CJE by ending a check to the above address in Washington, DC.
s

CJE Newsletter SUMMER 2008

• ll publicly-funded organizations are having new
A We must not forget that the benefits to owners, directors
demands put on them to find ways to improve the and managers of a successful job order contracting
performance and results by which they are held program include (just a few):
accountable. Getting more done with less. Less time, • mproved communications by all involved on the
I
less internal resources and increased budget pressures projects
are driving teams to new thinking and utilizing trusted
partners. The construction, maintenance and facilities • Responsive solutions
owners within a publicly-funded organization need to • Budget control – no surprises
respond to these pressures and concerns, and respond
in a way that is accountable and well-thought out for • Single source accountability
those they represent. • ore funds applied to the work vs. Administration
M
• he thinking, relationships and execution needs
T of RFP/solicitations
to be transparent and obvious. The construction, • Process thinking and predictable outcomes
maintenance and facilities departments of an
• Support of local small and minority businesses
owner organization are going to turn towards those
companies and methods they trust, that can help • liminated contractor-driven change orders and
E
them perform. Our owners don’t want to face these legal claims
challenges alone or explain to their boards how the • performance-based construction partner with
A
work will be accomplished. Rather, they want to owner aligned goals
show they are utilizing a partner with the necessary
resources and decision transparency. • Strengthened strategic relationships

• rofessionally developed, selected and managed
P The job order contracting market has doubled in the
job order contracting programs allow for improved past 24 months and will only continue to grow. The
results and predictable outcomes for an organization. responsibility is on all of us to make sure we are living
As times get tough, organizations and leaders within up to, not just the potential opportunity side (top line
them want to have partners they can trust. They growth), but also to the relationship and delivery side
want to respond with the best thinking and they want of job order contracting. We need to be sure that we
to make sure they are getting the best value for all are living up to the high performance standards and
their funds. expectations of job order contracting. The more we do

REGIONAL CHAPTER UPDATES
A targeted goal for CJE in 2008 is to launch regional
chapter committees in Texas, the Southwest and
“There are many Owners and Contractors practicing
and supporting JOC in the southwest U.S. There is
in the Mid-Atlantic regions. The first step in these a compelling common interest in seeing the JOC
chapters is to hold an exploratory session to identify project delivery method continue to grow and prosper
an owner in the region that will help spearhead the here, which aligns perfectly with the CJE national
development team. goals,” stated Charlie.
CJE Southwest Chapter News CJE Texas Chapter News
Charlie Bowers, Past Industry Chairman, from Carol Greb of TCPN has taken the lead of developing
Parsons, has agreed to lead the effort to get the a chapter for Texas. Early indicators show that there
current CJE members (and other JOC leaders) in is strong desire in Texas for the regional voice of
the southwest together in the coming months to test CJE. Carol is targeting to hold a planning session in
the interest level regarding the establishment of a early summer followed by the first session meeting
Southwest Chapter. To date, a planning session has in the fall. She has already held early phone calls and
been held to begin putting an approach together. information gathering to start the process.

2


well, the more expectations we exceed, the more the and improving the awareness and education of job order
use of job order contracting will grow, regardless of the contracting will improve the value to all members.
economic conditions. Successful job order contracting
Even though CJE is turning 15 years old next year,
programs are resilient to economic conditions.
in many ways we are just starting out. We live in a
Meanwhile, on the Center for Job Order Contracting new world of information and business and we need
Excellence (CJE) front, we have made it through the to continue to evolve and earn a seat at the table of
trials and tribulations of separation to become a stand our members in helping them succeed. Your continued
alone organization. We did this with the help of many support is critical and important to the CJE – each
CJE members and with the positive support of Gary Aller member, each active volunteer, is the lifeblood of the
and The Alliance for Construction Excellence (ACE). organization. Without you and future members there is
While we were focused on legal aspects of setting up a no organization. Your active participation in shaping the
new non-profit, the re-donation of funds, and the issuing vision and value of CJE is not just critical; it is the only
of invoices for 2008 dues, we need to remember that the way forward.
organization must be more than meetings and tactical
Please join me in making a difference through and
administration; these are just check in and refocusing
within CJE and continuing to support the development
points. Instead, we need to bring strategic value to all
of job order contracting. Become a servant and steward
of our members. With the recent shift to our stand alone
as well, advancing the value of job order contracting
organization, this is even more critical. As a volunteer
and CJE.
organization, if we do not bring strategic value, we will
see the membership stall and diminish over time. Best in Spirit!
I believe that our challenge going forward is not
going to be market acceptance; instead, it will be
on the value of CJE to the membership. In 2008 we
need to work on furthering the strategic development
of CJE with all members — most importantly David Carrithers
— the owners/users of job order contracting programs. 2008 Industry Chairman
I am excited about the opportunities and potential for Contact:
CJE in 2008; it is all good and all possible. The goals of David Carrithers, industrychair@JOCexcellence.org
increasing the membership, launching regional chapters

REGIONAL CHAPTER UPDATES…(continued)
Stay tuned for more news on this effort in the next share best-practices, to network on career possibilities
newsletter. All the regional chapter leaders will be and to grow awareness of job order contracting
working with David Carrithers, Industry Chairman, is valuable.”
to make sure we are all aligned in our goals and A planning meeting has been held with a variety of
communications as well as receiving guidance and existing members located in the Mid-Atlantic area
help from CJE national regarding these efforts. and a target list of potential members is currently
CJE Mid-Atlantic Chapter News under development. Bill went on, “We will target
late summer to hold a lunch meeting near Washington
Bill Kolster of Loudoun County Public Schools will DC or Northern VA in hopes of attracting both
be leading the efforts in exploring and defining the Federal and Non-Federal future members. At the
role of a regional chapter of CJE. “I’m excited to see first meeting we will focus on what value members
the regional efforts taking shape and look forward would be looking for, what content meetings should
to helping in these efforts,” said Bill. “The idea of have, etc.”
publicly-funded facility leaders getting together to

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JOC – The Right Choice for Flagstaff Unified
School District
By Greg Ohrn, P Assistant Professor Northern Arizona University
.E.,

Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in a Parsons/3DI to perform an assessment of their existing
selection committee for a Job Order Contract being facilities. From this study it was recommended that the
proposed for the Flagstaff Unified School District in District proceed with a funding request to issue bonds in
Arizona. In reflecting on this experience, I came to the the amount of $50-million for facility and other upgrades
conclusion that documenting this process might be of vital to the District’s operations. In November 2006, the
some assistance to other facility owners considering voters of the FUSD approved the bonding proposal and
similar types of contracts. the District began the hard work of planning how to
accomplish the facility upgrades.
To provide some
perspective, the In looking over the list of projects needed to be completed
Flagstaff Unified under this funding, the District must have recognized
School District that there were no major projects such as new schools,
(FUSD) is locat but there were an abundance of small projects that had
ed in a city of been identified for completion. While the District had a
approximately number of project delivery methods available to them,
58,000, surround it is most likely that the list included Design-Bid-Build
ed by a large (low bid), Design-Build, Construction Manager at Risk,
rural area in north and Job Order Contracting. While each of these methods
central Arizona. has a place in the facility manager’s tool box, the
The school dis rict
t District was obliged to utilize the method that provided
L. Gregory Ohrn, P.E. itself pro ides for
v the best value to the stakeholders: the voters, the
the educational students, and the District administrative staff. It could
needs of approximately 11,500 students at its 19 schools probably be agreed that all of the stakeholders want
which include 3 high schools, administrative offices, those things that all construction/facility owners want
and support facilities. (quality work safely completed on-time, within budget,
with no claims), but the District also needed to consider
While the District can trace its heritage back to the
the impacts on its staff. In other words, how will the
mid-1880s, the most recent major expansion came
District procure and manage all of this work given its
in the 1980s with the addition of a new high school,
current resources or will the District need to increase
three elementary schools, district offices, and several
its in-house staff in order to procure and manage this
upgrades of existing facilities. Since that time, the
temporary endeavor.
District has been in a maintenance mode, focusing
mostly on maintaining the existing facilities rather than Recognizing the fact that most of the recommended work
expanding. from the approved bond could be classified small and/or
routine projects, the District’s legal counsel suggested
A couple of years ago, the District once again recognized
the use of Job Order Contracting as the primary delivery
the need to upgrade their facilities because it had
method. While the District was familiar with Job Order
been over 20 years since the last major upgrade. To
Contracting through the use of the Mohave Cooperative
address this issue, the District enlisted the services of

4


JOC, the District itself had never had its
own JOC contract. The District could have
continued to utilize the Mohave JOC, but
recognizing the fact that they had funding for
several years of small and routine projects, it
was agreed that the District should have full
control over its own contract. The District,
therefore, proceeded to procure one.
Ultimately, the District hired a construction
Flagstaff Unified School District
management consultant (Heery International)
to assist them in putting together a procurement package
to hire the JOC contractors that would assist the District lowest construction cost. In a recently completed study
in fulfilling its obligations to the stakeholders in this of facility owner satisfaction with various project
process. Given the volume and type of work that needed delivery methods, it was noted that high levels of owner
to be completed, it was determined that the District satisfaction are most often associated with factors such
would hire four contractors to complete the work: two as freedom from claims, quality, and the ease of using
general contractors, one mechanical contractor, and one the project delivery method. Thus, while construction
electrical contractor. One of the advantages of JOC is cost (i.e. a coefficient applied to a unit price book) is
that all four of these contractors could be hired through always an important factor to consider, it should not
one procurement process. be the primary consideration. In other words, does
low construction cost equate to those factors that
owners are looking for: quality work safely completed
on-time, within budget, with no claims? Experience is
demonstrating that initially low construction cost rarely,
if ever, equates to low overall cost with high quality,
Following the procedures approved by the State of
safely completed on time, with no claims.
Arizona for school districts, the FUSD elected to use
a two-step qualification-based procurement process for The point here is that Job Order Contracting is not just
these contracts. In doing so, the District received 20 for large facility owners in metropolitan areas. Facility
statements of qualifications in the first step of this process owners in smaller markets with a need, and a reliable
(10 general contractors, 7 mechanical contractors, and 3 source of funding are taking advantage of Job Order
electrical contractors) and 9 statements in the second Contracting as a means of dealing with their backlog of
round of evaluation (5 general contractors, 3 mechanical small and routine projects. These owners are finding that
contractors, and 1 electrical contractor). Ultimately, this JOC is meeting their need for a project delivery system
list was narrowed down to the 4 selected contractors that provides high quality work, safely completed on
(2 general contractors, 1 mechanical contractor, and 1 time with no claims.
electrical contractor). On a personal note, if you have any interesting
It should be noted, while cost was not the primary information on the use of JOC at your facility such as
selection criteria, it was a factor considered in the how you justify the use of it at your facility, I would be
second round after the qualification-based criteria had interested in learning more. Please feel free to contact
been evaluated. In other words, the primary focus of this me. Contact: Greg Ohrn, Greg.Ohrn@na.edu.
procurement was to hire the most qualified contractors
to do the work at a fair price, but not necessarily the

5


2008 NASFA/NASCA Conference
Job Order Contracting Topic Of Interest To States Across The U.S.
By Carol Greb Bob Gair

T he parade of states on the first full day of meetings
summed it up best: 40 states reiterated time and time
again the pressure they are under to find ways to do
things better, faster and with more economic value.
Green, sustainability, energy conservation, staffing short
falls, decision transparency were at the top of the list of
importance. The facilities and infrastructure leaders for
the attending states were all interested in learning ways
to address these demands – as their resources become
tighter (both people and budgets). Jackson Hole, Wyoming

The 2008 NASFA/NASCA Conference, June 7th to 11th tool, we have a back log of demand that we need trusted
in Jackson Hole, WY, was a very lively, engaging and long term partners to help process. I like the way job
job order contracting interested session. With over 200 order contracting is a competitively procured solution
decision makers in attendance, the energy and questions to my ongoing renovation and remodeling needs. I just
went from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. The starting need more help in putting information together for my
session, including a 2-minute presentation by Carol Greb organization,” said a chief facilities director.
on the Center for JOC Excellence and her statement that
The overall impression from the conference is that
“CJE is a volunteer, non-profit organization dedicated
every state is now in the process of looking at job
to the education and awareness of job order contracting
order contracting as a possible solution to their backlog
as a solution for renovation, repair and construction
renovation and repair work.
needs of publicly-
funded facilities
and infrastructures” Parade Of Sponsors
was the right
Job order contracting was not only covered by Carol
message from the
Greb on behalf of CJE, but also Charlie Crane of The
start. She also held
up the CJE booth
giveaway, Benny
the Buffalo, and
said “and if you
come by and learn
more about JOC and
CJE you’ll get this
cute buffalo…”
Over the conference
dates, the members of CJE (whether within their own
company booths, or in the CJE booth, or during sessions,
hallway conversations and at break times) found job order
contracting was a topic of great interest. From Alaska Charlie Crane, The Gordian Group
to Florida, from Washington State to Massachusetts,
the desire to learn more on how to launch a job order Gordian Group, Bob Gair of RS Means, and Lisa Cooley
contracting program was of great interest. “We need this of Centennial where they were given time in front of

6


the whole attendee base. The core message was “job Those that already had JOC programs underway were
order contracting is a necessary tool in the tool box of proud to show support for JOC and those exploring
renovation, repair and rehabilitation”. had a variety of questions and sincere interest in job
order contracting.
Key Note Presentation
Lee Evey, president of the Design-Build Institute of
JOC Presentation
America (DBIA) talked about the Pentagon renovation The session, “JOC Implementation: Ensuring The
project and the re- Success Of Your Job Order Contracting Program”
building after 9-11. was a joint presentation by Washington State GA
He elaborated on and Centennial Contractors. The basics of a job
the value of Design- order contracting program were reviewed along with
Build, specifically the the specifics on the state legislation in Washington
values of improved governing JOC and what has worked well in the
communications, inte- program. John Lynch, assistant director of engineering
g
rated project teams and architectural services, Washington Department of
including construc- General Administration stated, “The state would not be
tion, design and the Lee Evey of DBIA gave the key note able to get done all it has without the job order program
speech to all attendees on design-
owner. His very build The Pentagon renovation; in place. I am a big proponent in favor of every state
powerful, personal key elements supporting what JOC is. having a professionally run JOC program.” Lynch went
and emotional presen on, “job order contracting programs save time, save
tation made those listening stop and think, “How can money and work best with a JOC contractor in a defined
we do things differently – do things that matter in a way area with local subcontractors.”
that is focused on results not conflict?”
During the 90-minute
presentation, Kelvin King
Exhibit Area went on to say, “job order
contracting succeeds
In every section of the show floor one member of the job
because of the up-front
order contracting industry was represented. The layout
time, communications
was open, inviting and easy to navigate – allowing for
and interaction. The
increased communications and time just talking “JOC”
scoping processes, the
and what it could mean to the different organizations.
estimating and the
Walking the floor were state executives, facilities
planning all leads to
directors, heads of departments of transportation,
thinking before the work
state housing, medical, education, head architect, etc. Kelvin King gave a class on starts. This alignment
JOC Program Implementation
with owner John Lynch of WA between the JOC con
GA — Highlighted CJE as tractor and the owner
Information Source creates a single focus on
the performance of the
team. JOC eliminates claims and legal issues because it
is focused on collaboration, communications and clear
expectations up-front.”
There was a lively series of questions and interactions
by attendees of the session. Lynch concluded with “find
a professional job order contracting partner, build a
relationship over time based on performance and as
CJE Booth Team – Carol Greb, Dave Carrithers, Ken Jayne the trust builds, turn over the projects to them to get it

7


done. Over time the ability to work quickly and without at the 2008 NASFA Conference, and initial feedback at
issues builds until the true value of job order contracting the onsite CJE Board Meeting affirmed this direction.
is attained.” Lisa Cooley, an active CJE member, joined the Industry
Liaison Committee and offered to provide a link
King concluded with a review of the benefits of joining
between the two organizations.
the Center for JOC Excellence and presented the website
address to the group. The goal will be to work cooperatively with NASFA to
provide education and guidance on JOC best practices.
CJE Quarterly Meeting The impact and wider acceptance of materials produced
jointly with an owner’s organization such as NASFA,
The meeting was very productive and engaged. When the could be invaluable. Any CJE members who are also
group got to the topic of what we hoped to accomplish involved with NASFA are invited to join the Industry
by the end of 2008, the top goals were: Liaison Committee and be part of this effort. The next
1. Start the regional chapters and make them a viable Industry Liaison Committee Call is July 23rd at 2 p.m.
growing entity within CJE; ET. Ideas for a joint work product are also solicited.
2. Clarify who CJE is and what value we bring to all The strategy of having CJE as a sponsor, presenter or
our target markets via other associations like NASFA, exhibitor at key target market and industry association
APPA, COAA, etc., making sure they understand that events continues to make sense. Bringing the message
CJE is a non-profit dedicated to JOC education and of job order contracting to the key decision makers at
awareness; universities, states, municipalities, and public schools
3. Increase owner participation in CJE and; makes great sense. This allows for both group and one-
on-one awareness of JOC, the benefits and the value to
4. Create a comparison grid of JOC compared with other
take place. Publicly funded facilities and infrastructure
delivery methods.
decision makers find it a great value to build a
The group felt it made sense to begin reaching out to better understanding of new tools and ways of getting
different industry associations and build alliances, like construction backlog taken care of during their national
with NASFA, DBIA and others. The quarterly meeting educational conferences and meetings vs. a stand alone
ended with everyone committed to the long-term viability job order contracting event.
of CJE and bringing value to the members.

Potential Partnership with NASFA Job Order Contracting Can Help State
Facilities Challenges With:

• Green/Sustainability Requirements
Five NASFA committees provide a targeted way to • Energy Conservation
get involved in the organization. The Industry Liaison
Committee is responsible for liaison communications • Resource Short Falls
between other facilities-related industry associations. • Demands on Limited/Reduced Staffing
These partner groups work to produce statements and
publications, such as the recently published NASFA/ • Transparency Of Decision Making
AGC Best Value Best Practices document and a NASFA/ • Accountability
USGBC LEED Toolkit which is in development now.
The idea of forming a formal liaison between NASFA • Responsiveness
and CJE was discussed during the Committee meeting

8


Successful Solutions Diverse Applications Of JOC
By Lissa Adams

Why Job Order Contracting brings value can be and decisions were in the best interest of all stakeholders.
seen in the results generated and the diversity of tasks To the greatest extent possible, the bonding company
undertaken by the industry. The following JOC success wanted to include the original subcontractors in the
stories share in that excitement and client results. solution and mitigate claims on the payment bond side
of their obligations. Because of the severe delays the
project had suffered to this point, a double shift had to
K-12 Pubic School be assigned with multiple Superintendent and Project
JOC User/Owner: Houston ISD, Debakey High School Manager assignments, by wing and component. The
High School Renovation Project summer schedule for 2007 was the most aggressive
portion of the project and had to be completed while the
students were out for summer break. The JOC contractor
mobilized immediately, picking up segments of work as
necessary. The scope included demolition of all flooring
and ceilings, including asbestos abatement, demolition
and replacement of all exterior brick, replacement of
70% existing HVAC units (which included a new chiller
in the central plant), new plumbing in restrooms and
science labs, new lighting, entry doors and canopies,
refinishing of terrazzo flooring on all 3 floors, painting,
roof repairs and a new sports floor in the gymnasium.
Despite the challenge of maintaining the aggressive
schedule with around the clock crews, the work was
completed one week ahead of schedule and the students
Project Description: Debakey High School is Houston arrived to a functional school in the fall semester.
ISD’s magnet campus for students planning careers in Project Duration: 5/2007–8/2007
the health professions and was undergoing a $12MM Location: Houston, TX
renovation. The project was procured using low- Submitted by CJE Member Organization:
bid contracting techniques and was severely behind Jamail Smith Construction
schedule because of GC performance problems, which
threatened its ability to open for the Fall 2007 Semester.
Houston ISD explored options to bring the project back Military
on-schedule and chose to terminate the low-priced GC JOC User/Owner: U.S. Department of the Army,
and complete the job (which was ~50% complete) with Fort Lee Army Base, VA
its Job Order Contractor. Upon termination in May, the Construction of Munitions Supply Building
District issued the JOC contractor an emergency Job
Project Description: Construction of the first of five
Order to continue with the project while price for final
munitions supply buildings to securely store small arms
completion was estimated and negotiated in July. Two
used by soldiers at the firing ranges. This is an active JOC
phases of project completion were identified: 1) Critical
for a client that has been served since 2004. The project
components necessary to open the school and 2) Final
included geotechnical investigation, site surveying,
project completion.
erosion and sediment control, site work, landscaping,
The project was complicated by the fact that there and security fencing. The building construction involved
were two clients: Houston ISD and the low-price GC’s cast-in-place concrete, pre-cast concrete arch segments
bonding company had to be satisfied that the approach and retaining wall members as well as reinforced earth

9


Higher Education
JOC User/Owner: Community Colleges of Chicago, IL
Renovation to Machine Shop and Classroom
Project Description: To avoid losing grant funding,
the owner utilized their Job Order Contract to expedite
the completion of renovations to a machine shop and
classroom. This owner has been using JOC for just
under two years. The project involved epoxy flooring,
cleaning and re-lamping Hi-Bay fixtures, installing and
completing final electrical connections to owner supplied
equipment as well as new acoustical ceiling and flooring
in the classroom area and painting throughout. The
biggest challenge involved the total power needs of the
new equipment being provided by the owner. The JOC
contractor was able to troubleshoot and find a sufficient
solution. The JOC contractor was also responsible for
preparing a furniture layout based on original plans
Construction of the first of five munitions supply buildings to supplied by the owner, which had to be reconfigured.
securely store small arms, Fort Lee VA Ultimately, the contractor ended up saving the owner
$15,000 by designing a more efficient plan.
strips, waterproofing and caulking. The scope included
the installation of a blast-resistant door and embed
assembly, louvers and ventilators, painting, electrical
power, lighting, lightning protection and a telecom
system. The pre-cast arch segments were erected and
positioned within 10 hours. Value Engineering reduced
cost by converting an existing asphalt roadway to an
entrance and the use of densely compacted gravel as
an alternative for a turn-around area and vehicle access
to the facility. The biggest challenge was the unusual
construction techniques for the bunker which required
significant up-front planning and coordination. The
JOC contractor and owner collaborated and completed a
large amount of preliminary design and project scoping
prior to the project funding. Another challenge required
the JOC contractor to modify the specified interior
lighting fixtures to meet explosion-proof requirements.
Although the design and construction of this project was
not a typical Fort Lee JOC project, it allowed the team
to think “outside of the box” to design, schedule and
construct a unique project within the contractual time
frame. The successful outcome of this project led to a
Before and after pictures of the Community Colleges of
second project at the new Ammunition Supply Point and Chicago shop and class room.
also created an opportunity for the JOC contractor to
team up with multiple specialty subcontractors.
Project Duration: 60 Days
Project Duration: 8/2007 – 2/2008
Location: Chicago, IL
Location: Fort Lee Army Base, Virginia
Submitted by CJE Member Organization: Centennial Submitted by CJE Member Organization: Centennial

10


University Celebration with a City Hall lighting dedication. The
JOC User/Owner: Georgia Tech project consisted of installing low- and high-voltage
Chemistry Lab Renovation lighting of both the structure and exterior landscaping,
including architectural and monumental lighting and
Project Description: Georgia Tech has been using ground and tree-mounted lights controlled by photo-
JOC for several years. This time-sensitive renovation cell. The project was challenged by an internal-client
included demolition and reinstallation of lighting, decision process on where to vest design responsibility
flooring, ceiling grid system, counter tops and cabinetry. for the project. While significant pre-design services
One of the major challenges for the JOC contractor was were undertaken by the Client and the JOC, formal
that all chemistry lab renovations were on the 3rd floor assignment of responsibility of design duties could not
of an occupied building. The JOC contractor had to take be finalized until this determination was made and a
precautions for debris, dust and noise as this project job order issued for both design and construction. This
took place during the middle of the spring semester. delayed issuance of the job order to less than six weeks
The project was successfully completed on time with no before the scheduled dedication severely jeopardized
punch list items at closeout. the availability of specialty lighting devices and pushed
Project Duration: 8 weeks from final scoping to work into the rainiest season of the year in San Antonio.
closeout, May 2008 Despite this, the lighting was expedited and manpower
Location: Atlanta, GA on the project doubled to ultimately complete the project
one week ahead of schedule, without a punch list item.
Submitted by CJE Member Organization: Centennial
The four-story building is lit in a soft orange hue, visible
from many blocks away.
City/Municipality Project Duration: Three weeks, April 2008
JOC User/Owner: City of San Antonio, City Hall Location: San Antonio, TX
City Hall Submitted by CJE Member Organization: Jamail
Smith Construction

University
JOC User/Owner: Georgia Tech
Molecular Science Engineering Laser Lab
Renovation
Project Description: This renovation entailed convert
ing an unused, single large lab into smaller individual
labs, each divided by laser curtains. New racks for
laser equipment were engineered, built and installed
during this renovation. A new sprinkler system was also
installed. This project attracted high ranking interest
and had a rock solid completion to support a new Dean
of the College of Sciences who was transferring in from
City Hall, San Antonio, TX
Cornell and required a special laser laboratory. “Work
was completed in an efficient, timely fashion. Quality
Project Description: The City of San Antonio, as part of construction was very good and the end user is very
of a program of downtown revitalization, asked the satisfied with the final result,” said Frank Lamia of
JOC contractor to plan and execute a lighting project to Georgia Tech Facilities.
illuminate the landscaping and building features of the
Project Duration: 12/2007–3/2008
Plaza de Armas building, which is today the San Antonio
City Hall, a historic building constructed in 1722. The Location: Atlanta, GA
goal of the project was to kick off San Antonio’s Fiesta Submitted by CJE Member Organization: Centennial

11


University Texas. Staff at Texas Tech University Health Sciences
JOC User/Owner: Georgia Tech, Atlanta, GA Center in Lubbock work to ensure that the 35-year-old
Server Room HVAC Installation institution is not only operating at its optimum, but that
each of its internal departments and external partners are
Project Description: The project entailed the providing the highest level of service and the absolute
installation of two Liebert units for supplemental best quality in as cost effective a manner as possible.
cooling to accommodate additional server equipment in
an existing computer server space. Completion of the Clearly, when an organization trains more than 7,000
work in a timely manner was critical to accommodate health care professionals, and meets the health care
the arrival of the new server equipment. Disconnecting needs of more than 2.5 million people who live
the campus server computers posed a schedule challenge throughout a vast 108 county area, stretching from the
because the work had to be done over one weekend; Texas Panhandle south to the Permian Basin and west
all systems had to be up and running by the coming into eastern New Mexico, it has to set and maintain strict
Monday. A three week lead time for the units required guidelines on quality and professionalism throughout
exceptional coordination and expediting to meet the its internal network. Doctors, nurses, administrators,
project requirements. Despite the challenges, the project scientists and patients all depend on the Center’s staff
was successfully completed on time and to the complete and their partners to maintain a facility that works and
satisfaction of the owner. works well.
Project Duration: 10/2007 – 12/2007 “When that many people depend on you and your staff,
Location: Atlanta, GA it’s extremely important to have the right mix of people
Submitted by CJE Member Organization: Centennial and partners to run the facility,” says George Morales,
assistant vice president, Physical Plant, Health Sciences
Center, Lubbock. “We’ve had a good experience with
Health Care the Job Order Contractor we’ve been using.”
JOC User/Owner: Texas Tech Health Sciences
Ongoing Renovation, Repairs Remodeling Texas Tech Health Sciences Center contracted a
professional JOC contractor, through Choice Facility
Partners, the facility services purchasing cooperative
operated by Harris County Department of Education.
The JOC contractor completed interior renovations to
modify and reconfigure a lab, and to renovate existing
space into an internal medicine department lab. One
exterior project was also completed to add a street light
to the corner of Fifth Street and Texas Tech Parkway.
“I see the JOC process as another good tool in our
toolbox,” he said. “But like every tool, the more you
use it, the more you become familiar with it, the
more you keep it in good condition, the better it will
perform.” Mr. Morales and his staff have seen how Job
Texas Tech Health Sciences, Lubbock, TX Order Contracting can save time, remove bureaucratic
obstacles and help him keep within his depart-
Project Description: There are few places where the ment’s budget.
unconditional combination of quality, dependability and “I’ve seen a much quicker turnaround on projects
reliability carries such a profoundly critical importance because we spend less time drawing up specs, we’re not
than a bustling, fast-moving medical center serving one creating designs from scratch, and of course, we’re not
of the largest and most diverse populations in the state of going out to bid for every project. We’re even seeing

12


a shortened evaluation period because we are getting is one that’s deeply entrenched, from school teacher to
to know our contractor and developing a mutually superintendent to external partners. The same is true
beneficial relationship,” said Mr. Morales. in its contracting partners, according to Sr. Project
Manager Richard Skalski.
“We’ve got a good relationship with the current
contractor, and a good experience with the JOC process,” In keeping with the district’s prevailing attitude of
he added. “I’m glad we’ve gone this route,” Morales getting it right, Spring Branch ISD has been a pioneer in
concluded. the Job Order Contracting process. “We’ve been doing
Project Duration: 2007–2008 JOCs for about 15 years,” said Mr. Skalski. “We believe
Location: Lubbock, TX in the process. We understand it and believe in it.”
Submitted by CJE Member Organizations: Choice Job Order Contracting, with its genesis in the military
Facility Partners Alpha Building Corporation tradition of developing mutually beneficial relationships
with contractors, can trace its roots back a quarter
century, and Spring Branch’s early entry into the
K-12 Public School
process speaks for its effectiveness.
JOC User/Owner: Spring Branch Independent
School District “We’ve seen it as a part of how we do business for
Ongoing Renovation, Remodeling Construction these many years, and we’ll continue to operate that
way,” added Mr. Skalski. The district has indeed had
a long history with the JOC program, using
a variety of contractors over the years to
complete all manner of projects, from the
smallest renovation and repair to the larger
construction projects.
“What I see as the JOC’s greatest asset is the
time we save. We can go from concept to
turning dirt in a matter of weeks, as opposed
to months. It’s not unusual for us to have
an idea for a project, and in less than 30
days, see construction begin. That would
be virtually impossible without the JOC
process,” he added.
Asked if he would recommend the JOC
process to similar organizations, he said,
“Most definitely. We have one project going
on now that would have been impossible to
Spring Branch Independent School District, Texas complete within the time frame without JOC.
It’s a lifesaver.” Among several projects that
the contractor has completed for Spring Branch ISD,
Project Description: Long history of using JOC pays was a major improvement to the district’s drainage
dividends for high performing district. To say that system.
the Spring Branch Independent School District in
Project Duration: 2007–2008
metropolitan Houston has a handle on how to do things
right might be seen as an understatement. The district Location: Spring Branch, TX
has been setting academic achievement records for a Submitted by CJE Member Organization:
number of years, and their tradition of getting it right Choice Facility Partners

13


MEMBER PROFILE
By Greg Smith

Founded in 1982, Jamail Smith ISD’s Fire and Life Safety Code JOC – a contract
Construction provides diversified we’re now proud to hold today as the prime contractor.
construction services to public During our nine years in the JOC business, we have
and private entities throughout the adapted the best practices of our staff and clients to
Southwest. We’re a diversified the changing needs of owners and attracted some of
General Contractor, experienced the most experienced people in the JOC industry to our
in providing professionally team. Jamail Smith is a successful JOC contractor
managed renovations, repairs, because of the relationship we build with our clients.
and new construction projects. We consider ourselves an extension of their team and
We currently employ 140 people work hand-in-hand with the facilities and maintenance
Greg Smith, P.E.
in seven regional offices and staff. To date we have served 38 school districts and 57
Senior Vice President our corporate headquarters in public agencies using JOC.
Houston, Texas.
Our mission is to Exceed Expectations. Jamail Smith
At Jamail Smith, we are committed to the communities has enjoyed a high level of customer satisfaction, because
in which we live and work and pride ourselves on we proactively manage our customer relationships to
delivering safe, quality workmanship, and professional ensure that we are not only exceeding our customers’
integrity on every project. We deliver our services expectations, but are anticipating the changing needs
locally, quickly, within budget, and with superior of our customers and adapting our services to continue
quality, ensuring that each project is a success. Last providing high quality service in all areas.
year, we executed over 600 projects, ranging from
We consider our reputation to be our most valuable
$2000 to over $10MM, via Design-Build, negotiated
asset. Our philosophy has always been to be the
private projects, and Job Order Contracting delivery
best, not necessarily the biggest. We have achieved
vehicles.
this by adopting a commitment to excellence that
Jamail Smith entered the Job Order Contracting ensures successful outcomes by employing proven
business in 1999 as a primary subcontractor on Houston processes. We focus on our clients’ goals and ensure

CJE TRAINING AND MEETING DATES
JOC Classes Scheduled for 2008: Facility Decisions 2008 Conference
September 16–17, 2008 Las Vegas, NV
APWA 2008 American Public Works Association
August 19, 2008, New Orleans, LA Presentation:
Job Order Contracting: A Facilities Management Tool
Presentation:
More Construction Projects Completed + Less Burden On Today’s Facilities Manager faces the challenge of renewing
Staff = Job Order Contracting aging building infrastructure with limited staff and people
resources. JOC, as it is commonly known, is a long-term,
Evaluating the advantages of Job Order Contracting (JOC) competitively bid, unit price contract. A JOC contract
which allows public agencies to use a single contract to complements in-house repair and renovation capabilities
accomplish multiple projects, eliminate “cost creep” using while providing greater flexibility for after-hours work and
predetermined pricing elements and fast-track projects. work in occupied facilities. Finally, it is performance-based
www.apwa.net so quality and timeliness are increased. JOC is a tool every
Facility Manager should have in his or her toolbox!
www.facilitydecisions.com

14


that our processes are adapted to deliver those goals. We through both good and lean times, continually shaping
measure ourselves against benchmarks of performance our service offering to meet customer needs. Greg
which exceed most customers’ expectations of quality, joined the firm as a partner in 2001 and has developed
timeliness, and cost effectiveness. the Company’s operational and business development
processes necessary to support successful growth within
The delivery of the best service requires a team our JOC, Design-Build and Negotiated Product Service
experienced in achieving not only high quality and Lines. A Professional Engineer with over 20 years of
compliance, but priced right and delivered on time. Engineering and Construction experience, Greg began
Our people are our advantage. Every Jamail Smith his career as a Navy Civil Engineer Corps officer
employee goes through a three-day Company Orientation where he contributed to the Navy’s effective transition
that includes our operational processes and customer from traditional “low-bid” construction procurement
service, designed to instill and refresh the performance techniques to the “Best Value” alternative techniques
capabilities of our team. This training has been essential of Design-Build, Job Order Contracting and MATOC
in achieving the growth and customer satisfaction we’ve concepts used throughout the nation today. Both Jim and
built our company upon. Greg are active in the community and serve on several
By carefully selecting our clients, refining our project boards and committees within various organizations.
management process, and selectively choosing and Jamail Smith has received three ABC Construction
training our staff, we have continued to provide superior Excellence Awards and has also been awarded the ABC
service. This combination of proven processes and Gold and Platinum ‘STEP’ Awards for Construction
experienced staff, coupled with a stable balance sheet, Safety Excellence.
makes Jamail Smith Construction a successful, solid
General Contractor, capable of meeting most any need
a client encounters.
Jamail Smith Construction is led by partners Jim
Jamail Greg Smith. Jim Jamail is the founder and
President of Jamail Smith. He has over 22 years of
experience in the industry and has managed more than
$100 million in construction for diverse project types. Contact: Lissa Adams, Jamail Smith Construction,
Jim founded the company immediately after college 512.288.1200, ladams@jamailsmith.com.
and, as a life-long entrepreneur, has steered the company

CJE TRAINING AND MEETING DATES…(continued)
COAA Construction Owners Association of America – Calendar of CJE Meetings:
Annual Fall Conference December 2–4, Tampa, FL 2008 Steering Committee Conference Calls:
Presentation: July 21, September 22, November 10, December 15
Value of Job Order Contracting Calls take place at 1:00 pm EST
A Research Study This presentation provides quantified data Call in conference number 1-800-416-4956
on the key elements and value of Job Order Contracting Participant code 68516736#
(JOC) from an Owners perspective. The key elements of JOC
are then compared to other construction delivery methods. 2008 Business Meetings:
This presentation is based upon a study conducted jointly by February 28: Austin, TX – DONE
four universities collecting data on the characteristics of JOC. June 10: Jackson Hole, WY – NASFA Conference – DONE
The study then presents the owners attitudes and perception
with respect to the influence JOC has on construction cost, August 20: CJE Office, Washington, DC
schedule, quality, safety, claims and overall satisfaction. December 3: Tampa, FL – COAA Conference
www.coaa.org 2008 Strategic Planning Meeting:
August 21: Location TBD – Washington, DC

15


Job Order Contracting Journeys To China —
CJE Builds Relationships
I n September of 2007 the International Facilities included a hospital, petro-chemical, high tech and
Management Association (IFMA) invited a group of offices, commercial, soda bottling plant, historical sites,
over 30 U.S. and international facilities managers, hospitality and hotel, retail, etc. “One of the highlights
consultants, owners, architects and industry partners to of the trip in my mind was the tour of the Shanghai Pu
travel to China to meet with facilities counterparts. The Nan Hospital” stated Carrithers. “Not only was the tour
U.S. industry delegation, which was headed up by Teena and following exchange of ideas wonderful and in-depth,
Shouse, VP of ARAMARK and former Chairperson of but the sense of shared desire by both cultures to do the
IFMA, represented well over 200 million square feet of best job possible in meeting their facilities’ goals and
facilities space across the U.S. and came from a wide missions was evident. There was a clear connection to
variety of industry segments. Included in the group the sense that the proper and professional development
were representatives from Harvard Medical School, of these mission critical facilities were strategic to the
Turner Broadcasting, Harley-Davidson Motor Company, long-term success of the organization.”
Broward County Public Schools, Clay County Missouri,
Another highlight
Lincoln Military Housing, Qualcomm, the Departments
of the trip was
Of Energy and others from Police Department and
the chance to see
Governments from the Netherlands, Bermuda and
the 2008 Beijing
Canada.
Olympics facilities
“It was a chance to not only learn and see how the under construction.
Chinese look at facilities management practices,” stated The pace, the volume
David Carrithers an IFMA delegate and current CJE of activities and the
Industry Chairman, “but it allowed for in-depth, broad sense that this was a
conversations on U.S. practices, trends and challenges chance for China to
as well among all the delegates.” be on the main stage
The trip went to a variety of facilities and cities 2008 Industry Chairman Carrithers at Beijing Olympic Complex
within mainland China, including Beijing, Nanjing during construction – IFMA Facilities Industry Ambassador,
and Shanghai. Facilities teams and locations visited bring the good word of JOC to China, Sept. 2007.

16


of the world in 2008 was evident everywhere. It felt like levels and standards as the U.S. The fact is the
a city within a city was being built by sheer willpower Chinese facilities leaders understand this and are
and might. The theme of the 2008 Olympics is, “One taking steps towards improving these areas.
World, One Dream”; and the whole country was in full
• ustainability and green facilities are of great interest.
S
swing to show their unity and vision to the global stage
There is a push underway in China to find out any
in 2008. The “birds nest” stadium at the heart of the
and all things dealing with facilities sustainability
Olympics was amazing and when completed will be the
and green practices. There was a sense that the
largest stadium in the world.
difference between the U.S. delegates and their
Key General Thoughts From The Trip Chinese counterparts was that for the U.S. people
it is a passion, almost a drive that is personal and
• acilities management is a relatively new concept
F visionary for their facilities leaders. While for the
to the Chinese. It was evident that there was a Chinese, it was more of a business-calculated drive to
recent revelation regarding the direct value in the the logic of this important topic in the industry.
quality and proactive maintenance and up-keep of
facilities to the long term return on the investment • ll business in China is based on relationships. The
A
into buildings and facilities. The idea of the lifetime ability to do work in the country requires knowing
value and the lifecycle of a building are new. people, customs and how the Chinese think. It is not
so much about brand or price, rather a sense that the
• acilities management as a career is new as well;
F two parties can work together towards a common
that specialized skills and training for those leading goal; that once established these relationships are
and driving the facilities is new and in high demand long-term.
and regard.
• assionate interest by the Chinese in anything
P
dealing with technology and facilities development,
management and improvement is high. There
was almost a sense that the Chinese counterparts
were more knowledgeable or driven to learn about
technologies and how these technologies can help
the facilities than their U.S. counterparts.
• afety and employee health concerns are developing
S
and taking shape in China, while not at the same

Meeting with Beijing Development Administration, (BDA) on
one of 20 new sites.

• penness of the Chinese facilities’ people to new
O
ideas, approaches and thinking. Also, very direct
and open dialogue on the history of China, the
government (good and bad) and the freedom to talk
with anyone and go anywhere. Also, the fact that the
Chinese people have a good sense of humor and are
down to earth was refreshing.
• sense that the future of facilities management
A
in China is taking shape now; that there is an
understanding that the facilities and what they mean
Hospital Meeting in Shanghai with U.S. facilities delegation
strategically to a business, organization and the
and hospital leadership. country are clear within China.

17


Thoughts On Job Order Contracting And China
Carrithers was able to bring materials on JOC printed rehabilitation skills as part of construction training.”
in both Mandarin Chinese and also in English — When asked about procurement and the approach
including a white paper on JOC. During the trip there for government funded efforts, the focus was “on
were conversations on a variety of topics surrounding relationships. We need to know the true spirit and ability
facilities, including the topic of construction, renovation of those we work with. A contract is only as good as the
and contracting for services with the Chinese government nature and abilities of those who sign it. We encourage
and also business people. communications, personal interaction and time to get
to understand one another. We focus less on cost and
The current state of Chinese business, even with the
more on the value of what we will learn and gain from
government, was less formalized than in the U.S. There
working together.”
were fewer concerns around contracting methods and
procedures and more around relationships, learning The greatest value
new thinking/technologies and speed. The skyline in all of sharing job order
the cities visited seemed to be changing overnight. In contracting on the trip
came with the other
industry ambassadors,
especially the publicly-
funded organizations.
The need to find ways
to renovate, repair
and rehabilitate their
current facilities, cam-
puses and infrastruc
ture was very obvious.
There was great
interest in learning
more about job order
contracting and also Forbidden City in Beijing under
about CJE. renovation.
Shanghai, a city under rapid change, targeting being the first
50 million person city within 20 years.
“This was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see a culture,
a people and how they think from the inside out”
some locations, none of the buildings were older than stated Carrithers. The demands of facilities people,
15 years. And there was an obvious focus on speed of globally, are a similar demand. This came out in every
construction and fewer demands around the long-term interaction. The common spirit, the singular focus of
value; rather the view of a facility as almost disposable. facilities performance forged a clear understanding
While the topic of renovation and repair came up as that facilities and those that serve them globally is a
something that will be needed as a skill in the future, one-world, one-industry reality. Carrithers concluded,
the simple fact was that when a building becomes out “We all came back with a renewed sense of purpose
of date, the Chinese seemed more interested in going at that America is setting the vision and direction for
the solution by building a new structure vs. renovation the facilities management industry globally; that JOC
and/or rehabilitation. and other innovative ways to help facilities leaders
One key Chinese official stated that, “This view on are well in demand. This renewed sense comes with
tearing down old and building new is changing even as an increased responsibility to share, communicate and
we speak. We now need to build long usability into the demonstrate this leadership here in the US as well
facilities, along with the ability to have renovation and as globally.”

18


2 3 4
1
Solve the
crossword 2 5
puzzle and
unscramble 3 4
6

the letters 7

to complete
the following
sentence. 5 8
9

Across
1. How owners can solicit for a JOC 6

2. Ace Director 7

3. JOC is this type of contract
4. The 6th Key benefit to JOC
5. One of the key goals and objects of CJE
10
8
6. ho shared the findings of a CJE study from
W
2005–2006
7. Items not found in UPB
8. Location of 2008 Annual Business Meeting
11
9. Current CJE Industry Chair
10. n article on JOC and SBE was recently featured
A 9
on this dot com site
11. Author of what was written in 11 down 10
Down
1. Acronym for 1 across
2. anagement experience, subcontractor experience,
M
safety program–are examples of this
3. Currently the only emeritus member of CJE
11
4. Where a group of JOC contractors met in 1994
5. The contract pricing is based on this
6. A military term for JOC
7. potential problem with JOC is when the contract
A
is awarded to this respondent
8. hat typically must a JOC contractor do to obtain
W Job Order Contracting is an
additional work from an owner
9. 70.8% of those polled, thought JOC was this
10. Location of a future CJE business meeting
11. he what, why and how job order contracting was
T
published by this associations news letter in 2004

The answer key can be found at at www.jocexcellence.org.
19

Take The Struggle
Out of Construction!

Whether you are a facility construction manager, owner, a municipal department,
a construction company, an industry consultant or professor you can beneﬁt
from learning about and improving your knowledge on Job Order Contracting.
Publicly funded facilities have unique demands that a professionally developed and managed Job
Order Contracting program can serve. Federal Government, State and Local Governments, Public
Schools, Universities, Transportation and many other facility and infrastructure environments are
beneﬁting from Job Order Contracting programs all across the United States.
To learn more about Job Order Contracting through networking, sharing best practices and training
become a member of the Center For Job Order Contracting Excellence today.
You’re not alone in your quest to meet your organizations’ facilities goals and demands.

www.jocexcellence.org
L EAR N , S HAR E S U CCE E D

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