Electronic Tendering in the Malawian Construction Industry: The Dilemmas and Benefits

Rodrick Lengama Chilipunde 
(The Polytechnic, University of Malawi, P/Bag 303, Chichiri, Blantyre 3, Malawi)

Abstract: The advent of internet technology has enabled electronic procurement in the construction industry which aids in the reduction of procurement costs. Among the technologies that have been praised by many stakeholders in reducing tendering cost of construction work is the arrival of electronic tendering (e-tendering). The aim of this research was to establish the reasons why e-tendering has not been adopted in full; in addition it assessed the drivers of e-tendering and the shortfalls of the traditional paper-based tendering system. The study targeted Quantity Surveying, Architectural, Engineering firms and the Roads Authority. The methodology used included an extensive literature review and field survey conducted on 37 consultants. The field survey used the questionnaire instrument and random sampling. The critical findings from the literature were that there are binding constraints in the applications of traditional paper-based tendering system. The field survey confirmed the issues raised in the literature reviewed and posited inefficiencies of traditional paper-based tendering system, barriers in the full implementation and the benefits of e-tendering system. The findings make an invaluable contribution to highlight the inefficiencies of traditional paper-based tendering system, barriers to the full implementation and the benefits of e-tendering. The recommendations include conducting awareness campaign of the benefits of e-tendering amongst built environment practitioners, highlighting the inefficiencies of paper-based tendering system and dealing with the barriers of e-tendering. There is also a need to formulate rules and regulations that accommodate e-tendering. In addition, promoting e-tendering system to ensure its acceptability among the stakeholders.

Key words: e-tendering, Malawi, technology, barriers, drivers