Why Qualifications-Based Selection Is Key to Building Sustainable Cities

The Ontario Society of Professional Engineers (OSPE) Sustainable Cities Task Force published a crucial document advocating for Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) as the preferred procurement method for engineering services. This milestone represents a significant step toward ensuring that infrastructure projects across Ontario prioritize expertise, long-term value, and public safety over cost alone.

OSPE has long advocated for policies that support engineering excellence and sustainability. By developing this report, our Sustainable Cities Task Force has provided a well-researched, evidence-based resource that explains the importance of QBS in selecting engineering firms. The goal is to shift procurement processes away from a cost-driven model to one that values technical competency, experience, and long-term project success.

Why QBS Matters for Sustainable Cities

Sustainable urban development requires forward-thinking, high-quality engineering solutions that consider long-term environmental, economic, and social impacts. Implementing QBS ensures that projects:

• Are designed and executed by the most qualified professionals rather than the lowest bidder.
• Prioritize life-cycle cost savings, minimizing maintenance expenses and long-term inefficiencies.
• Promote innovation, allowing engineers to apply the best solutions for infrastructure resilience.
• Improve public safety and sustainability, ensuring that urban growth aligns with Ontario’s climate and economic goals.

By advocating for a model that prioritizes qualifications over the lowest bid, engineers can drive better project outcomes while ensuring fair and sustainable compensation for their expertise. This report serves as a tool not only for policymakers but also for engineers themselves, empowering them to advocate for their profession’s rightful place in shaping Ontario’s future.

With this document finalized, OSPE will continue to work with policymakers, municipalities, and industry leaders to promote the adoption of QBS across Ontario. We expect this report to serve as a foundation for further conversations, helping to improve procurement policies and elevate the role of engineers in delivering high-quality, sustainable infrastructure solutions.