A new technique for subcontractor selection by adopting choosing by advantages

Abstract

Proper selection of subcontractor is considered as an important criterion in the successful management of the various construction projects. Previous methods used for subcontractor selection (SS) suffered several drawbacks such as: its complexity and being time consuming. The main aim of this study is to propose a new technique for SS by adopting Choosing By Advantages (CBA). The selection factors for subcontractor are determined. CBA principals, steps, merits and some of its applications in the construction context are demonstrated. Proposed SS technique is then developed, implemented on a case study and compared with recent methods in literature. The main contributions to the body of knowledge are as follows: (1) propose equations which determine exactly how to assess the percentage advantage for each factor for quantitative factors, qualitative factors with different grades/ranks, and qualitative factors on a yes/no basis and (2) subcontractors attain a positive utility when they are able to combine a low price with a superior level of five factors, which are: reputation, acknowledgement certificates, qualification of staff, amount of work in the last five years, and estimated time of the project. Globally, this technique is highly beneficial to industry practitioners because it will facilitate the subcontractor selection process.