Challenges of using systems engineering for design decisions in large infrastructure tenders

Decision-making in the tender phase of large, multidisciplinary, integral infrastructural projects is a complex task for contractors. They have to make decisions in design, construction, maintenance and regularly financing that will have long-term effects based on complex client requirements. The constrained environment of a tender, such as limitations of time and budget, and the unique context of every tender add more complexity. Therefore, no standard models are available for structuring the decision-making process in public tender procedures. Introducing systems engineering (SE) in the construction industry has led to more structured, process-based working methods. Dealing with uncertainty in design information due to the low level of concrete specifications is for the contractors’ decision-making process still a significant challenge. As a result, contractors struggle with designing a solution that will not only persuade the client, but will also deliver the optimum value and reduce the risks associat...

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