Contractor evaluation and selection: a Hong Kong perspective

The right choice of construction contractor is crucial to project success. However, selection strategies vary widely amongst different countries and even in the same country. This paper compares international trends and Hong Kong practice in contractor evaluation and selection strategies, with current imperatives. The exercise yields recommendations for general improvements. The Performance Assessment Scoring System (PASS) developed by the Hong Kong Housing Authority is next examined as an advanced example of a comprehensive contractor evaluation and selection aid. The strengths and weaknesses as perceived during this case study also lead to recommendations for consideration when developing similar systems elsewhere or in the future.