Abstract:To clarify the applicable scenarios of general design management and general design contracting management for urban rail transit and improve design management efficiency and engineering construction quality of rail transit, the core similarities and differences between the two modes are systematically compared based on the practical experience of projects such as the Yunba Line, Line 8 and Line 7 of Jinan Rail Transit in the High-tech East District. Combined with the engineering practices, the adaptability is analyzed. The result shows that two modes are consistent in management objectives, whole-process coordination, and technical, schedule and quality control, but differ significantly in contractual relationship, responsible entity, management authority and owner participation depth. General design management is suitable for projects with complex technology, multi-institute collaboration, phased construction and insufficient owner experience, while general design contracting management fits projects with mature technology, tight schedule and high integration requirements. Optimization suggestions such as scientific model selection and digital empowerment are put forward to provide practical reference and theoretical support for decision-making of design management modes in rail transit projects.