Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) is a competitive procurement process that requires a project owner to hire design professionals (engineers, land surveyors, architects, etc.) based on their qualifications and demonstrated competence. QBS prohibits the use of cost as a factor in the initial evaluation and selection of design professionals. Instead, firms are ranked based on their qualifications and experience. After identifying the best-qualified firm, only then may a project owner enter into negotiations for a fair and reasonable price.

Advocating for the use of QBS is a priority for ACEC California. We are committed to collaborating with public agencies to ensure that they have a clear understanding of design professional procurement laws, as well a clear understanding of the many benefits that QBS provides to clients and taxpayers.