Method to Deal with DBE Issues

Abstract

This paper presents a method which can be used for research on controversial issues such as awarding contracts to disadvantaged business enterprises (DBEs). In the research method both groups were surveyed to determine the opinions in various subjects. Chi‐square tests with contingency tables and Z tests were employed to distinguish the difference between the opposite groups so that a base could be established for policymakers to facilitate their search of further causes and specific workable plans. Both DBEs and non‐DBEs argued that they are confronted with difficulties in the areas of financing, bonding, labor, management skills, cheap competition, marketing, and debt collection. However, significant differences could be found between DBE contractors and non‐DBE contractors in the difficulties encountered by using the method discussed in this paper. The degree of differences can also be determined and quantified.