Deficiencies of technical specifications in tender documentation for construction project

Abstract

In the context of tender documentation for construction projects in the Czech Republic, technical specifications define the content and scope of work to be conducted using drawing documentation and a list of works, supplies and services. In practice, such documents are often burdened with errors (deficiencies) that can have different causes and impacts on the success of a project in terms of cost, time and quality. This study aims to explore the perception of the probability of occurrence and degree of impact of errors from various perspectives including risk factors, causes, possible effects, responsibility and the role of stakeholders. Data collected from experienced construction professionals in the Czech Republic show that documentation errors mainly affect project constraints in terms of cost and time and are often underestimated by investors concerning their impact and the probability of occurrence. Several recommendations are formulated to serve as preventive measures contributing to the elimination of errors and their early detection.