Explore Recent Developments on Qualifications-Based Selection of Engineering Services
Qualifications-based selection is a procedure whereby service providers are retained on the basis of qualifications, rather than price factors. Under the QBS method, the procuring agency reviews the qualifications submitted by interested individuals and firms, ranks respondents, and then negotiates with the most qualified respondent for a mutually agreeable contract.
The federal Brooks Architect-Engineers (A/E) Act (PL 92-582), enacted in 1972, requires federal agencies to use QBS procedures when procuring design services. Forty-six states have implemented some sort of QBS law, and numerous localities have also adopted laws modeled after the federal statute (known as "mini-Brooks" acts). They require states and localities to use QBS procedures when procuring design services. Other states and localities have adopted regulations or executive orders that accomplish the same objectives as the statutes.
NSPE’s Position
NSPE believes qualified professional engineers, on the basis of design ability, experience, and integrity should perform all engineering services. NSPE supports the procurement of design professional services on the basis of qualifications and strongly supports PL 92-582 (the Brooks A/E Act of 1972), which requires federal agencies to use qualifications-based selection procedures when obtaining design professional services. NSPE also supports the adoption of "mini-Brooks" laws at the state and local level.
NSPE Webinar: QBS and its Importance to Engineering and the Public
Highly skilled services that impact public safety, such as engineering services, are simply too critical to leave to the lowest bid. The selection process should be based upon expertise, qualifications, and the ability to perform the work to protect the interests and well-being of our citizens. QBS is a procedure whereby a service provider is retained on the basis of qualifications, rather than price factors. This webinar will educate participants about the unique value and necessity of the QBS process.
Learning objectives:
- What QBS is and how the process works
- The legislative and regulatory requirements associated with QBS
- The necessity of emphasizing qualifications over price
- The value of QBS to clients, PEs, and the public
- NSPE’s actions to promote and protect QBS
Missed the live webinar? The recording of the webinar can be accessed via an on-demand course and is free for members.