Knowledge‐Based Advisory System for Public‐Sector Design‐Build

Abstract

Design‐build (DB) contracting is becoming an increasingly viable alternative to traditional contracting techniques in the public sector. However, many project managers do not have the experience to use this style of contracting effectively. A knowledge‐based expert system called DB ADVISOR has been developed by the writers to assist project managers in designing and administering DB contracts. Assistance provided by DB ADVISOR includes: (1) Selecting projects appropriate for design‐build; (2) preparing the request for proposal; and (3) evaluating the proposal. Though the scope of the DB ADVISOR is primarily design‐build contracting for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Military Construction Army (MCA) program, we have generalized the system for other users. MCA includes acquisition of administrative, training, and maintenance facilities. The primary research issues of DB ADVISOR were identifying, defining, and synthesizing the information necessary for selecting and administering design‐build projects, and providing it to a project planner in a flexible, user‐friendly manner. Additionally. the research investigated ways to provide user control in a highly integrated process continuum involving many decision makers and their decisions. DB ADVISOR blends hypertext‐like interactivity with knowledge‐based technology.