A Synthesis of Best-Value Procurement Practices for Sustainable Design-Build Projects in the Public Sector

Research in sustainable building practices suggests that integrated project delivery methods can more successfully deliver green buildings as measured by cost, schedule, and quality objectives. Design-build is an integrated project delivery method that has increased in use in the public sector. Design-build projects are commonly acquired through best-value procurement, which includes factors in addition to price. However, the procurement process of green buildings requires specific selection factors that are not accounted for in conventional buildings. This study synthesizes the current state of practice for best-value procurement of sustainable design-build projects within the public sector. The findings are based upon a content analysis of procurement documents for 26 projects. The results of this study reveal that procurement opportunities exist to improve best-value award algorithms. The findings show that owners are missing opportunities to evaluate design-builders on sustainable building experience and sustainability of the proposed design in project management plans. Modifying the solicitation documents to include these elements could improve the overall success of delivery.