If you decide to contract for an OPM's services, what process must you follow?

Choosing to contract for an Owner's Project Manager (OPM) services involves utilizing a qualifications-based selection process. This approach emphasizes assessing the qualifications, experience, and past performance of potential candidates rather than focusing solely on cost. The rationale behind this method is that OPMs play a crucial role in overseeing construction projects, and their expertise can significantly influence project success.

In a qualifications-based selection, the project owner evaluates candidates based on their relevant experience, approach to project management, and capabilities. This thorough evaluation ensures that the selected OPM has the necessary skills and understanding of the project's unique requirements, leading to higher quality outcomes and effective project oversight.

Other processes, such as time-based or price-based selection, do not prioritize the critical competencies and experience that are essential for the successful leadership of construction projects. Random selection does not provide any basis for assessing the suitability of the candidates, making it an ineffective approach for choosing an OPM.