Explains the process by which the US government selects architect-engineering firms to perform design services for it, and guides the prospective contractor through the maze of requirements from finding the announcement of available contracts, almost (but not quite) to the Senate subcommittee hearings on graft. Covers how to go after a job, the proposals and negotiations leading to getting it, the administration and recording requirements after the contract is awarded, and the requirements when the project is completed. Updated to the 1995 versions of the regulations. Annotation copyright by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

The procurement of architectural and engineering design services is one of the least known markets in Federal Government contracting. However, it can be one of the most profitable business ventures a professional services firm can undertake. The regulations, policies and procedures for architect-engineer contracting are based in law from the Brooks Act of 1972. The award of a design services contract is almost totally based on the qualifications and experience of the firm as a whole and the particular individuals in the firm who will be assigned to the advertised project. During the selection process, all firms are ranked based on the merit of their technical proposal for the specific solicitation. Only after the evaluations are completed do discussions on price related factors begin. If the most qualified firm proposes reasonable fees, they are awarded the contract. Firms that continually strive for technical excellence will always have a profitable market share under this procurement system.