In Sri Lanka, a Contractor is selected through a bid evaluation procedure in construction projects
and this is be a crucial step in the implementation of the project. The most frequently used bid
evaluation procedure in Sri Lanka is the Government Bid Evaluation Procedure (GBEP), the
Government being the client in most of the projects. Although GBEP is referred to in government
publications, it has so far not been analysed in detail. This study therefore was conducted to identify
the suitability of GBEP to local building projects.
Firstly, a literature synthesis and a desk study were carried out. The degree of use of GBEP identified
from the literature synthesis was validated through semi structured interviews which also identified
the advantages, disadvantages and limitations of GBEP.
The analysis reveals that a well-defined procedure, proper documentation, possibility of selecting the
lowest evaluated bid are the major advantages of GBEP while the absence of a minimum eligibility
criteria for preliminary bid evaluation, adjustments done by the evaluator, low accuracy of the
Engineer’s Estimate and non-consideration of the optimum bid are its major disadvantages and/or
limitations. Suggestions are made to overcome the disadvantages and limitations. Flexibility on
ICTAD registration, making allowance for discounts for variations, introduction of standard formats
for reporting and prohibition of adjustments by the evaluator will enhance the transparency and
accountability of GBEP.International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and
Construction (CIB
