For project-specific technical submittals, which procurement process and phase limits apply?

• A. One-phase
• B. Two-phase
• C. Three-phase
• D. Open-bid

Answer: (B)

When a project has unique technical requirements that must be demonstrated by bidders, a two-phase procurement is used. In Phase I, the owner prequalifies teams to ensure they have the qualifications, experience, and capabilities to pursue the project. In Phase II, the shortlisted teams submit project-specific technical submittals that detail how they would meet the distinct technical performance requirements, often with price proposals evaluated afterward or in a separate step. This structure lets the owner assess technical capability and approach before considering cost, reducing risk of selecting a team that cannot meet the technical needs.

Choosing a single, open, or purely price-focused process would not provide the same opportunity to verify how bidders intend to achieve the project’s technical goals, and a more complex three-phase approach is generally reserved for especially large or highly iterative programs.