Study of bidder selection criteria in various contract modes of road projects

Abstract

The selection criteria for outsourcing to execute any specialized work through tenders/bids by any executing agency have been used for the development of public infrastructure projects. The procurement procedures for road development throughout India for public infrastructure and selection were performed by the Lowest-Cost Bidder (LCB). The cost factor is a popularly used bidder selection method, in which the one who quotes the least cost will obtain the project. Various studies have been conducted to determine the causes of failure, delay, substandard work, poor quality, etc., on the performance of selected lowest-bidder-executed projects. To enhance the existing bidding selection procedure and eliminate the causes of failure caused by the existing bid selection procedures, a revised and improved procurement procedure known as Quality and Cost-Based Selection (QCBS) is currently being adopted. This study analyzes the bid selection procedure under various contract modes to reduce the risk of failure and improve the work quality of the road infrastructure in India. New guidelines in public procurement process over existing rules and procedures are emphasized by the Government of India by involving stakeholders, regulating authority, financing institutions, Ministry and Departments considering work quality.