How Does QBS Work? Selecting an Architectural or Engineering Firm 1. The Owner develops the general scope of work and schedule. 2. The Request for Qualifications (RFQ) is issued through the Owner's public notice process. 3. Statements of Qualifications are received and evaluated for the most qualified firms. 4. A short list of the most qualified firms is developed and firms may be invited to interview. 5. Interviews are conducted and firms are ranked according to predetermined selection criteria. Negotiating a Contract 6. The Owner works with the top–ranked and selected firm to define a detailed Scope of Work. 7. The firm develops and submits to the Owner a detailed fee proposal based on the agreed–upon Scope of Work. 8. The Owner and firm negotiate a mutually acceptable contract, including scope of work, schedule, fee, and business terms. 9. If an acceptable agreement cannot be reached with the top–ranked firm, the negotiations are ended and the second–ranked firm is invited to negotiate. 10. Once an agreement is reached, a contract is executed.     Website development in association with Brown and Caldwell