The results from the survey on "contractor selection criteria" do however show similarity in that the following attributes were rated as the top six most important by both the clients and the service providers.
• Quality Plans & QC Measures
• Methodology
• Project Management Skills
• Technical Skills
• Relevant Experience
• Past Experience
Even though the importance of each attribute (or weighting) was different it was interesting to note than these top six attributes were the same. This might be a lesson learned that these six attributes are to be considered when including non-price issues in the public tendering process.
Also, the weighting differences between these attributes probably differ from the main role of each organization. Clients desire to receive best quality at a certain designated price and have a strong belief that QC is an accurate reflection of quality, while the service providers need to determine how to configure their organization and supply chain to meet the needs of a given contract that is competitive amongst all those offering a valid tender.
Another difference is that traffic management is rated higher by the clients than contractors. This also depends upon the maintenance type activity being performed and the need not to disturb the traveling public as much as possible. Resurfacing and bridge repair are good examples of the impact of traffic management versus grass mowing, sign replacement/removal, and cleaning. The road authority is the public entity responsible for most of the complaints and feedback form the road users.