Last Updated on May 2, 2026 by Jorge Lynch
When defining requirements for civil works procurement, the following are 15 questions to consider:
1. Scope of works: What is required: new construction, renovation, or repair?
2. Planning basis: Is the need documented in an approved plan, or program?
3. Site location: Where is the site located?
4. Site readiness: Is the site available, unencumbered, and supported by adequate geotechnical and utility data?
5. Environmental, social, and permitting requirements: Have all environmental, social, and permitting requirements been identified, and have the necessary assessments and approvals been initiated?
6. Implementation approach: Is there in-house capacity to undertake the works, or does the requirement need to be contracted out?
7. Design and engineering capacity: Does the organization have in-house design and engineering capability, or must these services be procured separately?
8. Design and supervision arrangement: Should design and construction supervision be carried out by one entity or by separate entities?
9. Technical documentation: Who will develop the technical specifications, drawings, and bill of quantities?
10. Construction supervision: Who will supervise construction execution on behalf of the employer?
11. Contract type: What contract type is appropriate: lump sum, unit price, remeasurement, or cost-plus?
12. Contract packaging: Should the works be packaged as a single contract or divided into lots to optimize competition and manageability?
13. Procurement schedule: When must contract award occur to meet the implementation schedule, and what is the required procurement lead time?
14. Funding: How much funding is required, and are sufficient funds available and committed?
15. Market capacity: Are qualified contractors available in the market?