A Statement on Professional Services-Competitive Bidding

Fundamental aspects of competitive bidding procurement for consulting engineering services are considered. The writer concludes that professional bids should be considered only under normal competitive bidding procedures as practiced in the construction industry. Some of the procedures that logically would be required are set forth for your consideration. True competitive bidding procurement for consulting services will upset the traditional make-up of professional practice. Of special note are the altered responsibilities of the engineer and his client that result from competitive bidding. It is suggested that the client assume some of the responsibilities that have traditionally rested with the civil engineer. While stating that competitive bidding is possible, the writer warns against inaction and calls for ASCE regulation of competitive bidding as being in the best interests of the professional community.