The design-build-operate-maintain (DBOM) model is an integrated partnership that combines the design and construction responsibilities of design-build procurements with operations and maintenance. These project components are procured from the private sector in a single contract with financing secured by the public sector. DBOM procurements provide project sponsors with all the potential benefits of the design-build project delivery method. In addition, by bundling the operation of projects with their design and construction, these procurements incentivize the private partner to apply cost-saving, life-cycle costing principles to align the design of the project with long-term maintenance needs.
DBOM procurements require private sector bidders to prepare cost estimates that include maintenance activities for the duration of the contract. To do so, bidders must develop tailored maintenance plans that anticipate needs and streamlines long-term maintenance costs. This process may result in developing a more robust and costly design, in order to reduce ongoing maintenance costs throughout the operations period. For owners, the lifecycle cost approach also shields important maintenance needs from the uncertainties of future budget cycles.
The DBOM project delivery approach is also known by a number of different names, including "turnkey" procurement and build-operate-transfer.