How do you evaluate and select the best building automation and control system vendors and contractors?

1 Project scope and requirements

The first step is to define your project scope and requirements, such as the size, type, and function of your facility, the BACS features and functions you need, the budget and timeline you have, and the standards and regulations you must comply with. This will help you narrow down your options and focus on the vendors and contractors who can meet your expectations and deliver the best value.

2 Vendor and contractor credentials

The next step is to check the credentials of the potential BACS vendors and contractors, such as their licenses, certifications, accreditations, memberships, awards, and references. You want to make sure that they have the relevant expertise, experience, and reputation in the BACS industry, and that they follow the best practices and codes of ethics. You can also ask for their portfolio, case studies, testimonials, and referrals to see their previous work and results.

3 Vendor and contractor proposals

The third step is to request and review the proposals from the shortlisted BACS vendors and contractors, and compare them based on the quality, feasibility, and cost-effectiveness of their solutions. You should look for the details of the BACS design, installation, commissioning, testing, maintenance, and support services they offer, as well as the warranties, guarantees, and terms and conditions they provide. You should also evaluate their communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, and how well they understand your project goals and needs.

4 Vendor and contractor demonstrations

The fourth step is to ask for and attend the demonstrations of the BACS products and services from the selected BACS vendors and contractors, and assess their performance, functionality, and usability. You should test the BACS features and functions that are most important for your facility, such as the user interface, data collection, analysis, and reporting, energy management, security, safety, and integration with other systems. You should also ask questions and provide feedback to the vendors and contractors, and observe how they respond and interact with you.

5 Vendor and contractor negotiations

The fifth step is to negotiate the final terms and conditions of the contract with the preferred BACS vendor and contractor, and ensure that they are clear, fair, and mutually beneficial. You should discuss the scope of work, deliverables, milestones, payment schedule, change orders, dispute resolution, and risk management. You should also verify the contract documents, such as the specifications, drawings, schedules, warranties, guarantees, and insurance policies, and make sure that they are consistent with the agreed terms.

6 Vendor and contractor evaluation

The sixth step is to monitor and evaluate the performance and quality of the BACS vendor and contractor throughout the project lifecycle, and provide feedback and guidance as needed. You should use the contract documents, the project plan, and the key performance indicators (KPIs) as the basis for your evaluation. You should also conduct regular inspections, audits, reviews, and surveys to ensure that the BACS vendor and contractor are meeting your standards and expectations, and complying with the regulations and codes.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?