760
Special Procedures: Product Development
764.4.2
Establish Scope
Preliminary analysis is conducted in cooperation with interested
manufacturers to identify those components of the ceiling system most
likely to benefit from research and development in terms of both cost and
performance. The specifications in Section 770 have been prepared on
the assumption that the hangers cannot be significantly affected and
should therefore not be included in the scope. Work to be performed by
bidders is delineated and includes installation as well as manufacture and
delivery.
764.4.3
Encourage Alliances
There are few if any manufacturers presently prepared to accept single
responsibility for all components or for installation as well as delivery.
Alliances are therefore necessary among manufacturers and between
manufacturers and installation sub-contractors. Partial bids are not
acceptable, so each alliance presents itself as a single bidder called a
"component contractor." The VA and its consultants encourage and assist
the formation of these groups. If viable groups cannot be quickly formed,
project feasibility and scope are re-examined.
764.4.4
Publish Bid Documents
Using the format provided in Section 770, all performance parameters are
quantified on the basis of appropriate standards, cost-benefit analyses,
trade-offs, etc. The performance specifications and other required bidding
documents, such as general and special conditions, are distributed to
interested parties. This includes bid forms stating component quantities to
be used as the basis for bidding. A conference is held shortly thereafter
for verbal explanations and answering of questions. The A/E or other
consultant is designated as the official interpreter of documents and
arbiter of disputes.
764.4.5
Provide Design Assistance
Each bidder prepares his design in response to the performance
specifications. The A/E provides design guidance to the bidders to a
degree commensurate with their own internal capabilities and as required
to assure responsive submissions. The A/E fee is adjusted accordingly by
the VA.
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