Implementation of ISO 9001:2000 quality management system for construction biddings procedures in construction management practice

Abstract

Construction sector is well known for its poor management system, it is mainly due to the involvement of large amount of paper works in converting data to useful information related to construction work. Tendering is the initial stage for any construction work and therefore it is vital for contractual parties to have standardized tendering documents as well as standardized tendering checklists in order to achieve efficiency for tendering work. This project examines the implementation of ISO 9001: 2000 QMS in Malaysian construction biddings procedures particularly for government projects. 43 companies with ISO 9001: 2000 certified organizations have participated for the purpose of this study. Outstanding factors contributing to an inappropriate tendering practice have been investigated, besides a complete set of tendering procedures have been drawn up for both conventional and design-build procurement systems in addition to six new tendering guidelines requested by 87% of the respondents to be part of the actual tendering guidelines. A constructive survey and in depth discussion with contractors, consultants and JKR staff have been used to support this study. It is hoped that the current study contributes as a step towards enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of tendering practices for construction projects within ISO 9001 version 2000 QMS continual improvement stated in clause 8.5.1.