When state or local government officials undertake a construction project - whether it's erecting a building, widening a highway, constructing a bridge, creating a city park, or any number of other public improvements-the selection of an architectural or engineering firm is one of the most important choices to be made. That's because the engineering or architectural firm's performance determines the entire course of the project and has a significant impact on the ultimate construction and operation and maintenance costs during the facility's lifetime.
The engineering or architectural firm is retained at the beginning of a project, long before ground is broken and construction begins. Professional engineers and architects translate your needs and concepts into the reality of detailed construction plans.
You may be uncertain about the best way to select a firm and about the work that engineers and architects do. We hope the information in this section will answer some of your questions.
SOLICITATION
Q: What are the general services engineers and architects provide?
A: The basic phases of service on a typical project are feasibility study, preliminary design, final design, construction bid evaluation, and construction observation. Architectural projects often include a detailed programming phase that would precede actual design work.
Q: How are architectural and engineering firms retained?
NEGOTIATIONS
Q: What does the term "scope of work" mean?
A: The scope of work is a definition of the project and the services to be provided to secure its execution, including specific tasks necessary for completion. Negotiation of the scope also involves an evaluation of alternative solutions or approaches to the project.
Q: Will the negotiated procurement process preclude problems during project execution?
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