Learn About QBS (Qualifications Based Selection)

Click here for a 52-page report (PDF) of "An Analysis of Issues Pertaining to Qualifications-Based Selection," a national study developed at the request of ACEC in collaboration with the American Public Works Association (APWA).

The QBS law, HB 3272, became effective January 1, 2006

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE QBS LAW
As of January 1, 2006, Qualifications Based Selection (QBS) will be required on all state agency projects and on local government projects that meet the following project size thresholds:

HB3272-A will:
Require QBS for all local government projects in Oregon that are more than $900,000 and have at least 10% state funding participation in the projects overall cost. If the project falls below these thresholds then local governments may use any selection process they deem appropriate.

The passage of HB 3272-A is a significant step in the evolution of QBS in Oregon. In 1997 ACEC Oregon passed the requirement for QBS at the state agency level; in 2001 the local government provision with a sunset clause was added and in 2005 the sunset was removed and slight changes were made to the funding thresholds. We need to continue to educate local governments and other partners about the value of this procurement selection process.

WHAT IS QBS and How Does it Work? Click here for "How to engage design professionals*....to achieve quality and cost effectiveness in public projects using Qualifications Based Selection (QBS).

Read House Bill 3272.

Link to Oregon Administrative Rules.