Best value procurement in the construction industry

[edit] Introduction

The best value procurement (BVP) approach is a method of purchasing construction works, services and so on. It considers criteria, such as quality, reliability and expertise, rather than just price to assess value.

[edit] History

This method was developed by the Performance Based Studies Research Group (PBSRG) in the United States (where it is most commonly used). It is also practised in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, where it is referred to as ‘prestatie inkoop’ or performance procurement.

[edit] BVP or MEAT?

The idea behind best value procurement is to compare the long term costs and benefits associated with the vendor selection process. It is similar to the Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) principle, and both use assessment criteria such as:

• Quality.
• Price or cost using a cost-effectiveness approach.
• Technical merit.
• Aesthetic and functional characteristics.
• Accessibility.
• Social characteristics.
• Environmental characteristics.
• Innovative characteristics.
• After-sales service and technical assistance.
• Delivery conditions such as date, process and period.

In addition to MEAT criteria, best value procurement also assesses the potential for eliminating (or minimising) risk, so procurement decisions are made based on predictability. Best value procurement assigns weightings to each criteria - including reliability- and vendors or contractors are scored on each. Decisions are based on the final tally.

[edit] The process

There are four phases of the best value procurement process::

1. Preparation.
2. Selection.
3. Clarification.
4. Execution.

Being data driven, best value procurement simplifies the decision making process. This minimises the influence of vendors in the procurement process and maximises the power of the procurer.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

• Best value.
• Bid evaluation.
• Competitive tender.
• Contract award.
• Invitation to tender.
• Most advantageous tender MAT.
• Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT).
• Public procurement.
• Risk in building design and construction.
• Selection criteria.
• Tender evaluation.
• Tender price appraisal.