Implementation of Quality Control Plans for Alternative Contracting Methods in Highway Projects

Implementation of Quality Control Plans for Alternative Contracting Methods in Highway Projects

2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.60164/2c0ibk1m3

Authors: Phuong Nguyen, Daniel Tran

Citation:

Nguyen, P., and Tran, D. (2026). Implementation of Quality Control Plans for Alternative Contracting Methods in Highway Projects. Lean Construction Journal 2026 Special Issue CRC-CSCE pp 35-51 https://doi.org/10.60164/2c0ibk1m3 (Submitted 10Jan2026; Accepted 28Aug2026) www.leanconstructionjournal.org

Abstract:

Question: How are contractor quality control (QC) plans implemented and administered under alternative contracting methods (ACMs), including Design‑Build (DB), Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC), and Public‑Private Partnerships (P3)? How do these practices compare to the traditional Design‑Bid‑Build (DBB) method across U.S. state DOTs?

Purpose: The objective of this paper is to investigate the implementation of QC plans for administering QA specifications in highway infrastructure projects delivered using ACMs.

Research Method: Mixed‑methods approach combining (1) a systematic literature review of QA/QC in ACM highway projects, (2) a nationwide survey sent to AASHTO Committee on Materials and Pavements members (50 state DOTs), and (3) a content analysis of state DOT construction manuals, QA manuals, specifications, QC guidelines, and related documents.

Findings: The result of this study shows that most state DOTs confirmed there was no difference in requirements for QC plans between ACMs and the traditional design-bid-build delivery method in terms of certifications/qualifications for QC personnel, and process control. However, the roles and responsibilities between contractors and agencies regarding QC plans and acceptance decisions in ACM projects were not clearly defined.

Limitations: Scope limited to ACMs DB, CM/GC, and P3.

Implications: This paper contributes to the body of knowledge by providing current practices of the highway agency’s use of QC plans for administering their QA specifications in ACM projects. This paper sheds light on the consideration of the optimal roles and responsibilities of agencies and contractors to manage QA activities and QC plans in ACM projects to help state DOTs allocate risk to ensure quality work is performed.

Value for authors: Institutionalize standard work for QC plans within AASHTOW are Project(qualifications, sampling plans, test methods, corrective actions, logs), leveraging role‑based permissions and audit trails. Potential for lean practices, such as mapping the QA/QC value stream and utilizing percent plan complete to measure reliability of QA tasks.

Keywords: Alternative contracting methods, quality assurance, quality control, transportation agency acceptance, independent assurance, highway construction

Paper type: Full Paper