Capital Projects Glossary
Key terms related to capital projects can be confusing. Below is a glossary of terms to help better understand our approach to our projects and capital improvements.
Bid - The phase where contractors submit proposals to win the contract based on the project’s design and scope.
Campus as Forest - An initiative that views the Catawba College campus as an integrated natural ecosystem, fostering environmental stewardship, biodiversity, outdoor learning opportunities, and regenerative design practices.
Campus Master Plan - This document offers campus improvement projects in support of Catawba's Strategic Plan. Approved by the Board of Trustees in March 2025.
Close Out - The phase where the project is completed, final inspections are done, and necessary documentation is handed over to the client.
CM-at-Risk - A project delivery method where the owner hires a construction manager (CM) during the design phase to oversee the project from the buyout stage to closeout.
Concept Design - The initial phase of a project where broad ideas and visions are explored, focusing on the project's overall form, function, and aesthetic direction. This phase sets the basis for the more detailed stages of design development.
Construction - The phase where the physical work of building the project is carried out.
Construction Documents - The detailed drawings, specifications, and instructions created to guide the construction process, ensuring the project is built as intended.
Design - The phase where detailed plans, drawings, and specifications are developed based on the project requirements.
Design-Build - A project delivery method where the building owner contracts with just one entity for both the architectural design services and construction.
Design Development - Approved schematic design is refined, with more detailed plans, materials, and systems integration, turning concepts into workable solutions.
GMP - Guaranteed Maximum Price is the highest amount Catawba College will pay for the project. Contractors are responsible for cost overruns beyond the maximum price unless a change order is issued.
Living Building Challenge - The Living Building Challenge is a philosophy, advocacy tool, and certification program defining today’s most advanced measure of sustainability in the built environment.
Living-Learning Laboratory - An approach that integrates academic learning with
practical, hands-on experiences within the campus-built environment, landscape, and other campus systems and facilities.
Passive House - Passive building utilizes five core principles to create safe, resilient, comfortable, and – most importantly – energy-efficient structures, from commercial to residential to multifamily.
Planning - The phase where goals, scope, budget, and timeline are defined and resources allocated for a project.
Student-Ready Campus - An institutional approach that prioritizes the readiness and responsiveness of the campus environment to meet diverse student needs and support their success.
Schematic Design – During this phase, preliminary design ideas are developed, including layout, scale, and spatial relationships.
WELL Certification - The WELL Building Standard™ version 2 (WELL v2™) is a vehicle for buildings and organizations to deliver more thoughtful and intentional spaces that enhance human health and well-being.
