March 14- Public Works

Drafting Effective Qualifications Based Selection Procurement Documents (RFPs & RFQs)

This program will introduce practitioners to the use of Qualification Based Selection [QBS] documents for public infrastructure projects. State and local governments, due to legislative advancements and the increasing need for alternative financing for public work projects are being exposed to alternative project delivery models such as design-build, construction manager at risk, integrated project delivery and P3s. This program will draw distinctions and embrace commonalities between traditional, low-bid procurement documents and those used in QBS. Using model documents and essential items checklists, participants will learn how to structure procurement documents that will permit contractors to adequately price the project, ensure critical balance of risk and cost between the owner and the contactor, provide comprehensive evaluation criteria and processes that reduce likelihood of bid protests and draft adequate performance, commissioning and warranty provisions. 
Program takeaways:
1. Participants will understand the distinctive components contained in QBS documents that vary from traditional low-bid procurement.
2. Participants will learn the structural components, including necessary document provisions and appendices needed in varying types of QBS public work procurements
3. Participants will understand the difference between use of minimum qualification criteria [lowest responsible bidder] and effective use of comparative evaluation criteria to reach the “most advantageous proposal”.
4. Participants will learn how to structure the procurement, evaluation and award process in QBS procurements.

Speakers: Steven "Tip" Torres 

Click here to view the speakers' bios.