Effective Utilization of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) in Alternative Delivery Projects: Strategies and Resources to Support the Achievement of DBE Goals

This synthesis is a comprehensive review of the best knowledge and practices for stimulating effective utilization of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) in the procurement and execution of transportation projects, using design-build and other alternative delivery methods. The study also identifies ways in which the Georgia Department of Transportation’s (GDOT) Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program can be enhanced and provides recommendations on effective practices for involving DBEs in Design-Build (DB) and other alternative delivery projects. This is done by conducting a cradle-to-grave review of DBE involvement in DB and other alternative project delivery systems, and synthesizing existing best practice strategies in State Departments of Transportation (DOTs). The research team identified three main challenges: (1) Identifying and communicating pre-award opportunities, (2) Diversifying DBE opportunities, and (3) Achieving the desired behavior in order to attain program goals. Eight recommendations along with targeted companion strategies were made to address these challenges and strengthen the agency’s existing DBE program including the following: developing an interactive web-based database; setting sub goals in contracts; ensuring monitoring and compliance; enhancing communication between DBE staff and project planners; encouraging unbundling of work packages in DB manual; and using explicit language in project documents.