Engineering the Procurement Phase to Achieve Best Value

Abstract

Best value is defined and its use in the development and procurement phases of the design/build process is explored. The intent is to offer guidance to federal and state transportation authorities, highway engineers, and contractors embarking on design/build transportation projects for the first time. Almost any project, it is noted, can be delivered through design/build, but best value is obtained in projects that offer substantial opportunity for innovation. The benefits of the two-phase selection process are surveyed, and attention is then given to appropriate prequalification criteria and the amount of design that should be incorporated into the request for proposals. It is contended that best value through increased innovation in design/build will not be fully realized until the transportation sector develops better performance specifications. The proper level for stipends also is discussed.