Integrated Project Delivery: Advancing Collaboration in Alberta

September 19, 2025 — 

This month, we began a social media series introducing the principles and practices of Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) — a model we have actively worked with in Alberta for more than eight years. With a growing body of completed and in-progress projects, IPD continues to reshape how owners, architects, and contractors deliver complex facilities. 

The following article is an expanded look at the themes covered in our series to date, supported by reference material from the IPDA, Canadian standards, and Alberta’s project delivery environment.  


What is IPD? 

IPD is not defined by a contract alone— it is a framework for collaboration. Unlike traditional procurement models that separate responsibilities, IPD consolidates the owner, architect, contractor, and consultants into one contractual entity with shared objectives. 

The most commonly used agreements in Alberta include: 

  • Hanson Bridgett Agreement – A pioneering U.S.-developed contract widely referenced in Canada, often used on early pilot projects to establish collaboration and shared accountability.
  • CCDC 30 (RAIC) – The Canadian standard form endorsed by the RAIC, specifically written for domestic projects. It formalizes poly-party relationships and has become the benchmark in Alberta.
  • Proprietary Agreements – Tailored to reflect the culture, risk tolerance, and project goals of specific clients, including municipalities and healthcare authorities in Alberta. 

 

Regardless of format, the common principle is clear: shared risk, shared reward, collective success. 


To learn more about Integrated Project Delivery, check out the following resources → 

The IPD Framework | The Integrated Project Delivery Alliance (IPDA)

Hanson Bridgett Standard IPD Agreement | The Integrated Project Delivery Alliance (IPDA)

Integrated Project Delivery: An Action Guide for Leaders | The Integrated Project Delivery Alliance (IPDA)

The American Institute of Architect's Guide of IPD | The Integrated Project Delivery Alliance (IPDA)


With more than eight years of direct IPD experience in Alberta, we've seen how IPD improves trust, reduces disputes, and enhances project outcomes. As adoption expands, the model is becoming not just an alternative, but a preferred choice for clients seeking innovation and stability. 

Our ongoing IPD social series continues to explore these topics— collaboration, validation, and risk— in more detail. 

Follow along on Instagram and LinkedIn to see how IPD principles are shaping our projects across Alberta today.