The solicitation, evaluation, and selection of construction contractors: a case study of US Army Corps of Engineers

Abstract

The goal of this research was to provide recommendations and highlight areas for improvements during the solicitation, evaluation and selection process of prime contractors by US Army Corps of Engineers. To achieve this goal, the research team conducted the literature review on evaluation of construction contractors, both from a pre-award and post-award stand point followed by interviews using structured questionnaires. This research has concluded that the US Army Corps of Engineers should make strides to better define the evaluation factors that are being utilised, while providing a detailed description of the project being constructed, in order to ensure that potential contractors submit project specific information. By requesting the interested contractors for more project specific information via their management plan, schedules, organisational chart, and other potential evaluation factors, the Corps can gain better insight and understanding of each potential contractor, resulting in the selection of the best contractor for project completion.