Over the past four decades, Job Order Contracting (JOC) has vastly improved the way construction procurement is done, enabling teams to complete projects more efficiently and cost-effectively. Advantages unique to this procurement solution — such as up front, competitively-bid pricing — have helped organizations across North America complete more than $3.8 billion in construction volume annually.
Communities can gain significant benefits when organizations and local facilities leaders use JOC. This article explores the core benefits, including enhanced safety and reliability for public facilities, effective budget management through preset pricing, support for local contractors and fostering equitable opportunities for diverse businesses.
JOC Helps Keep Public Facilities Safe and Functional
“We’re very proud to have our students in [a] school where they’re learning in an environmentally safe building.”
— Susan Bransfield, Former First Selectwoman, Portland, CT
Job Order Contracting can be an asset to communities by keeping public facilities safe and operational through quick, reliable responses to maintenance needs and system upgrades. Pre-established contracts simplify the procurement process which allows projects to start immediately by eliminating lengthy bidding periods. With this approach, teams can address essential tasks such as upgrading HVAC systems or restoring walkway surfaces. As a result, JOC helps community facilities teams maintain and modernize their infrastructure.
Specific ways JOC keeps facilities safe and functional:
- Quick Response: Addresses maintenance needs promptly which prevents small issues from becoming major problems.
- Safety Compliance: Includes updates to meet current safety codes and regulations to achieve compliance and public safety.
- System Upgrades: Facilitates upgrades and replacements of essential systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing).
- Preventive Maintenance: Supports preventive maintenance programs to identify and address potential issues early.
JOC Helps Community Organizations Stay On-Budget With Preset Pricing
Under every Gordian JOC program, construction costs are preset and published in the Construction Task Catalog®. This helps organizations within communities to establish clear cost expectations from the start. This fixed pricing structure makes it easier for local facilities leaders to develop accurate budgets and defend spending decisions if needed.
With preset pricing, communities can avoid common challenges like budget overruns and unexpected cost increases, ensuring that funds are utilized wisely and responsibly. This fosters transparency and accountability through reinforcing public trust in how the community’s money is managed.
“When audit time comes around, I feel 100% confident that we’ve done everything correctly and that’s a huge benefit [of] having a partner like Gordian.”
— Dr. Arsenio Romero, Superintendent, Los Lunas Schools, NM
JOC Supports Local Contractors
“Gordian has been an excellent partner [in ensuring that we complete] these [tasks] on time, at a high quality [and] that we use local vendors.”
— Dr. Arsenio Romero, Superintendent, Los Lunas Schools, NM
Job Order Contracting is a powerful method for communities to enhance their local contractor networks. By prioritizing local contractors, JOC directly contributes to job creation within the community. This creates a positive economic impact that not only supports construction efforts but also benefits everyone in the area.
JOC’s focus on local contractors not only boosts the economy but also helps build a network of skilled professionals who are available to respond to community needs, especially during emergencies such as natural disasters. This local expertise ensures quicker and more efficient recovery and reconstruction efforts, which is crucial for maintaining the area’s stability and safety.
For individuals interested in becoming a JOC contractor, check out our comprehensive guide on the benefits of JOC for contractors.
“93% of the value of this project was [completed by] contractors and vendors within 20 miles of where we’re standing right now.”
— Jack Steinke, Project Manager, HY-TEK Construction
JOC Creates More Equitable Communities
One more key benefit of Job Order Contracting is its impact on communities through supporting diverse contractors. JOC promotes the participation of minority-owned businesses in various sectors, including construction, facility management and public works. This inclusivity helps address historical disparities in access to contract opportunities by ensuring that a broader range of voices and perspectives contribute to community development.
35% of JOC contractors hold minority certifications.
Empower Your Community With Gordian’s Job Order Contracting Solutions
Job Order Contracting empowers communities by enhancing public facilities, ensuring budgetary accountability and creating local economic growth. Through supporting diverse contractors, JOC not only helps maintain vital infrastructure but also promotes a more equitable business environment. As communities face growing demands for safe and efficient public spaces, Gordian’s JOC solutions are equipped to facilitate essential improvements.
Explore how your community can benefit from Job Order Contracting by visiting our dedicated JOC page.