The Office of the Victorian Government Architect has updated its procurement guidelines for state government agencies with the aim of improving design outcomes.
The Government as ‘Smart Client’ guidelines were first released in 2013. The update comes in response to recent changes observed by the OVGA in the procurement of design services, buildings and infrastructure, and the emergence of new models such as program alliances. They are informed by recent projects, including the State Library Victoria Redevelopment and the Level Crossing Removal Project.
The OVGA notes that, since their inception, the guidelines have proved to be beneficial across government, industry and universities in explaining the various procurement methods and the actions required to protect design quality.
The guidelines are not mandatory and do not represent a new layer of process; rather, “they integrate essential design quality measures within the existing planning and delivery framework of government.”
Victorian government architect Jill Garner said the strategies can assist government to be a “smart, informed client” and deliver projects that leave a design legacy.
“Good design does not just happen; it needs processes that support a quality outcome and it needs to be protected throughout all stages of delivery of a project,” she states in the new edition of the document. “The process of procurement of a well-designed building includes starting with a good brief, a design vision that defines performance/outcomes-based principles and the appointment of a skilled, capable, design team.”
The new edition provides updated advice on intellectual property, contracts, probity, post-occupancy evaluation and public–private partnerships.
David Islip, OVGA principal adviser – architecture and urban design, said the updated guidelines provide practical steps to improve procurement capabilities.
“In procuring design services, government needs to recognize that architects’ skills do not rely on how low they can bid; rather they are found in the scope and expertise of their design services,” he said.
“In procuring buildings and infrastructure, government needs to prioritize design quality regardless of the procurement method chosen. If the risks to design quality are understood, all procurement methods can be effective. These guidelines support that intent.”
See the document here.
