Qualification Based Selection (QBS)
You may have heard the term “QBS”, which is an acronym for “Qualification Based Selection”. In short, it is a method for selecting design professionals that relies heavily on the qualifications of the firm as opposed to focusing solely on the fee. While private owners of course remain absolutely free to follow whatever selection process they wish, including an exclusive focus on the fees, units of government are often required to factor in additional criteria beyond fee. Indeed, the State of Michigan already employs a form of QBS where firms are shortlisted and ranked based on qualifications and the State thereafter negotiates with the listed firms to try and reach an agreement. At that point the negotiations do include reference to fees along with other factors, and if the State is unable to come to an agreement with the firm ranked the highest based on qualifications, it moves on the next highest ranked firm and so on.
Right now that selection criteria applies only to the State and projects the State undertakes directly. Our AESLC partners are proposing that we pursue legislation that would require that approach be employed by all units of government, including local municipalities, townships, and school districts. Since Government Affairs serves AIAMI membership, we seek your input on the direction you believe we should take when formulating policy for this proposed legislation. Please follow the link and review the power point presentation for additional information. Thereafter, please share whatever thoughts you may have with us directly.
Thank you
The AIA Michigan Government Affairs Committee