Performance-based procurement for low-disturbance bridge construction projects

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce a method of performance-based procurement, based on the most economically advantageous tender (MEAT), for low-disturbance bridge construction projects in urban environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The first part of this paper reviews the key performance indicators (KPIs) of low-disturbance construction and the procurement procedure based on the MEAT principles. The second part reflects on two actual bridge projects (the Rotebro bridge in Sweden and the Arno river bridge in Italy) as observatory case studies to analyse how clients and contractors can implement the KPIs in MEAT.

Findings

The research findings demonstrate the possible inclusion of the KPIs of low-disturbance construction into the MEAT criteria. The MEAT principles can then be used in combination with either a traditional or an integrated procurement strategy.

Research limitations/implications

The implementation of MEAT to achieve low-disturbance construction projects is considerably new and still requires an empirical validation. A further elaboration of the procurement strategy within the EU regulatory framework is strongly recommended in order to assure the broader impacts of sustainable construction.

Practical implications

The findings and recommendations support the practical development and the use of MEAT in construction projects in the EU.

Originality/value

This paper presents on-going investigation within the FP7 collaborative research project “PANTURA”, which addresses the actual research agenda of the European Commission on low-disturbance and urban-friendly civil infrastructure projects.

Citation

Sebastian, R., Claeson-Jonsson, C. and Di Giulio, R. (2013), "Performance-based procurement for low-disturbance bridge construction projects", Construction Innovation, Vol. 13 No. 4, pp. 394-409. https://doi.org/10.1108/CI-06-2012-0033