Gordian Logo RSMeans Data from Gordian

Job Order Contracting Basics: Ideal JOC Projects

By Gordian

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.   

Considering JOC for your next project? Explore what makes a project ideal for JOC, including how it facilitates rapid project initiation and allows for flexible adjustments to meet changing operational needs while enhancing the bidding process. 

JOC Accelerates Routine Operational Projects

Job Order Contracting is ideal for routine operational projects (such as renovations, repairs and replacements) because it accelerates the process through pre-established unit prices and contracts — allowing projects to start almost immediately. The speed and flexibility of JOC enables quick adjustments to the project scope by accommodating changing needs without delays. This approach is particularly beneficial for organizations that need to maintain continuous operations and cannot afford lengthy project processes.  

Essentially, JOC is perfect for projects that need to be done quickly because it allows for a fast start and finish. For instance, if a school needs emergency repairs to its heating system before winter, JOC can handle it swiftly. This quick response ensures the school remains warm and operational during the cold months, illustrating how JOC is especially helpful to communities for urgent projects when time is critical. 

Gordian’s JOC solutions can help efficiently complete a wide range of construction projects valued anywhere from under $50,000 to over $1 million. JOC is a versatile project delivery method because it’s not tied to a specific project size but rather to certain kinds of work. Ultimately, JOC’s strength lies in its ability to expedite projects that need to be completed fast, allowing companies to stay operational without disruption. 

“We’ve done about six or seven projects, from a small pavilion we [built] in one of our parks to a $250,000 project [installing] a generator using FEMA funds for emergency purposes.”    

   — Frank Hoffman, Director of Public Works, City of Perth-Amboy, NJ

JOC Saves Time On Bidding By Using Preset Prices

Projects well-suited for JOC benefit from its unique bidding process, which helps streamline costs and expedite timelines. Instead of bidding on entire projects, contractors bid an adjustment factor to a catalog of tasks with preset Unit Prices, called the Construction Task Catalog® (CTC). Once a contract is awarded, the contractor can perform a variety of projects, always using the preset prices in the CTC. This approach, according to a study by NIGP, can save up to 25% in procurement time compared to other project delivery methods. 

“Renovations, repairs and replacements are great Job Order Contracting projects.”  

Tom DiGangi, Executive Vice President, National Strategies 

Is Your Project a Good Fit for JOC?

If you’re considering JOC for your next project, here are some key factors to evaluate: 

  • What kind of project is it? JOC is typically best suited for projects that involve repetitive tasks or MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Operations) work, such as facility repairs, minor construction, renovations, infrastructure upgrades and electrical work. 
  • Is funding currently available? Ensure that you have the necessary funding in place to move forward with the project. 
  • Does your funding source allow JOC? Verify that your funding source permits the use of Job Order Contracting. 
  • Does your staff have capacity? JOC can be helpful to a team who may be overburdened by providing relief through offering additional support or resources needed to complete projects efficiently. 
  • When does the work need to be finished? If your project has a specific deadline, JOC can be particularly effective because it expedites processes, ensuring that projects are completed on-time. 

JOC is the ideal choice for straightforward and routine projects. If a team is overwhelmed or needs assistance, JOC can step in to manage the entire project lifecycle — alleviating the burden of bidding and management. Through using JOC’s expedited delivery, you can ensure timely results for projects with tight deadlines. 

While JOC can be highly efficient for routine upgrades or renovations, it might not be the best choice for constructing entirely new facilities. The complexity of such projects often involves numerous tasks which can make individual pricing burdensome and potentially offset the time savings. 

Leverage the Benefits of JOC for Your Projects

Job Order Contracting stands out as an effective project delivery method for organizations looking to streamline construction procurement. Its unique benefits help align strategic goals and enable quick project initiation, which makes it ideal for renovations, repairs and urgent needs. By evaluating the project’s urgency, scope and complexity, you can decide if JOC is the right fit for you. 

Ready to take the next step? Explore how Gordian can help you accelerate your projects today by visiting our dedicated JOC page.

About Gordian

Gordian is the leading provider of Building Intelligence™ Solutions, delivering unrivaled insights, robust technology and expert services to fuel customers’ success through all phases of the building lifecycle. Gordian created Job Order Contracting (JOC) and the industry-standard RSMeans Data. We empower organizations to optimize capital investments, improve project performance and minimize long-term operating expenses.

Have a Project in Mind?

Streamline Your Construction Procurement Process, Connect with Qualified Contractors and Kickstart Your Project Now!

x
Gordian Job Order Contracting - Project Entry
Start Your Project in Three Easy Steps

Identify your project. Fill out a quick form. Get started with our Gordian JOC experts.

Enter Your Project Now
Scroll to Top