Selecting a Design Professional

When a construction project is undertaken, the selection of an engineering or architectural firm is one of the most important steps in the process. The design professional's performance can influence the entire course of the project as it relates to financial aspects, feasibility, public response, design and functional efficiency, as well as the costs for construction, operation and maintenance during the life of the facility.

Since 1972, Congress has mandated (Public Law 92-582) the selection of engineers and architects through a qualifications-based selection (QBS) process for government contracts. Recent national studies confirm that taxpayers get the best value when contracts for architectural and engineering services are negotiated on the basis of demonstrated competence and qualification (versus selecting solely on the cheapest price) for the type of professional services required.

In 1986, the Michigan QBS Coalition was formed to help educate owners on developing and using a QBS process. The QBS Coalition is a non-profit organization that provides a wide range of resources to develop a tailor-made process for selecting an engineering firm – free of charge. Facilitators are willing to work one-on-one with local government officials to ensure they obtain the best qualified engineering/architectural professional at a fair and reasonable price.
​
For further information contact the QBS Coalition office at 517.332.2066 or visit the Michigan QBS website at www.qbs-mi.org.