ABSTRACT
From the early planning stage, the owner must conceptualize and actively seek as a working partner that specific contractor who is best able to carry the venture to a successful conclusion. The contracting phase of a project results in the creation of the owner-contractor partnership. Owners benefit through actions which optimize costs. Contractors benefit from enhanced employee creativity, higher productivity, lower costs, and improved profitability. The chapter explores the Phases of a project such as competitive bidding, single responsibility, fair and ethical practices and sequence of contracting activities. The process of contractor screening begins with the complete list of those contractors who appear to have the capability and experience, gathering up-to-date information on their capacity and experience; and selecting a limited number to receive the Invitation for Proposals. The contractors' proposals will consist of commercial proposal, project execution proposal and technical proposal.
