Preparedness of Construction Stakeholders for the Adoption of E tendering in the Sri Lankan Building Construction Industry for the Public Sector

Abstract

Tendering is a process undertaken to obtain offers from interested contractors to carry out specific packages of construction work. Presently, most construction stakeholders in developing countries use a paper-based tendering method, which is time-consuming, costly and labour-intensive. To address the increasing calls for efficiency improvements and sustainability in the construction industry, the adoption of e-tendering presents several benefits, including electronic exchange of information and avoidance of errors associated with traditional tendering. This study aims to investigate the readiness of Sri Lankan construction contractors and consultants, the key parties involved in the tendering process, to embrace e-tendering while considering the aspects of sustainability and digitalization A mixed-method approach was employed, starting with a literature review to compare conventional and e-tendering processes. Subsequently, a questionnaire survey was conducted to identify the current level of usage of e-tendering and to investigate the preparedness levels of consultants and contractors to implement e-tendering. Expert interviews were conducted to identify strategies for successful adoption. The findings reveal that while electronic tools are used in the tendering process, there is insufficient readiness for complete e-tendering implementation. The study suggests that the government sector should lead the initiative to enhance e-tendering adoption, thereby promoting greater efficiency and sustainability in the industry.