Bidding model for sustainable projects using the traditional procurement method

Abstract

The evolving concept of sustainable development introduced a new dimension to development processes and procurement routes. Consumption of natural raw materials that have fixed quantity without commensurate replacement should be a matter of concern to humanity. The need to maintain the ever growing human populace instigates the challenge that society’s developmental effort meets the demand of economic prudence, social equity and environmental conservation. This is quite daunting one, yet must be met if this planet earth and its inhabitants are not to be put in harm’s way. Sustainability in development seeks to achieve the reduction of input-output ratio yet presenting qualitative and satisfactory products to end users. The traditional procurement method (TPM) is still widely used in construction because of some advantages it offers over other methods. Contractor selection in the traditional procurement method can no longer be overlooked- being a vital process that influences project success in terms of cost, quality, function, and environmental care. Many scholars have asserted that time allowed for bidding in the TPM is little in Nigeria as such responsible for the persistent cost over-run in building construction projects. Increasing the time increases the overall project procurement period. Since market fluctuation due to other market forces is unfriendly, the goal of sustainable projects is defeated in this context. This paper seeks to enquire if the TPM remains a good base for project procurement and then modified to retain its numerous advantages over its disadvantages. Estimates from 50 samples of projects were tested using analysis of variance (ANOVA) to find if the (estimates) are reliable at times of tender. This was established and a new bidding model using the TPM proposed. The model reduced time taken to bid yet gave bidders more time to prepare their offer. Other critiques of the TPM have also been addressed in the model. This helps to achieve the goal of sustainable development and enhances TPM for built environment.