Development of e-tendering evaluation system for Nigerian public sector

Abstract

Purpose The revolution brought about by the internet and the World Wide Web has led to the development of numerous e-Tendering systems for public sector tendering that have automated various aspects of the manual tendering processes that are known to experience numerous problems. However, one key area that has not been fully addressed is the automation of the evaluation of public tenders based on group decision-making. This paper presents part of the development of a Web-based e-tendering system called Nigerian Public Sector eTender (NPS-eTender) that automate the evaluation of public sector tenders based on group decision-making. Design/methodology/approach The system was developed using object-oriented methodologies. Specifically, Ripple and unified process methodologies were adopted. Findings The results of the system validation showed that NPS-eTender has an average rating of 74% with respect to correct and accurate modelling of the existing tendering domain and an average rating of 67.6% with respect to its potential to enhance the proficiency of public sector tendering in Nigeria. Based on the results of the validation, it can be concluded that the automation of the tender evaluation process can lead to a more proficient tendering process. Originality/value This research has contributed to the development of an e-Tendering system for the public sector that supports the whole tendering lifecycle including the automation of evaluation of public tenders based on group decision-making.