Effektivare upphandlingsprocesser - En systemanalys av urvalsprocesser, kommunikation och uppföljning

Abstract (Swedish)

This thesis presents a comprehensive systems analysis of the impact of quality assessments, communication practices, and monitoring mechanisms on the efficiency of public procure-ment in the Swedish construction sector. Recognizing that public procurement is a corner-stone for societal infrastructure and development, the study specifically examines procure-ment regulated by the Swedish Public Procurement Act (LOU) for projects above the estab-lished threshold values, with additional focus on contract monitoring from the client per-spective.
Public procurement constitutes a significant part of the Swedish construction industry and plays a crucial role in the execution of building projects that contribute to societal develop-ment. The research investigates how legal principles within the Swedish Public Procurement Act (LOU) influence the selection of suppliers, with a particular focus on projects exceeding the threshold value of 59 880 179 SEK January 1st, 2024 (Upphandlingsmyndigheten, 2025).
A triangulated research design is employed, integrating a systematic literature review, anal-yses of three major infrastructure projects (New Karolinska Solna, Västlänken, Hallandsåstunneln), and a case study through semi-structured interviews with procuring au-thorities and contractors. This multi-method approach allows for the identification of recur-ring issues, in-depth causality analysis, and the formulation of actionable recommendations.
Key findings indicate that imbalances between price and quality criteria, weaknesses in evaluation models (particularly the distinction between relative and absolute scoring), asymmetric information dissemination, and insufficient competence among procurement officials are fundamental contributors to poor procurement outcomes. Contractors frequently withhold critical project risk information during bidding, and many authorities lack practical expertise in the application of LOU. Furthermore, sporadic and unsystematic communica-tion, as well as weak contract monitoring mechanisms, exacerbate cost overruns and quality shortfalls.
The case studies demonstrate that projects implementing transparent, digitalized monitoring routines more successfully manage timelines, costs, and quality requirements. Data indicates that the adoption of hybrid evaluation models and digital information-sharing tools reduces disputes, increases control, and fosters trust and satisfaction among project stakeholders.
Based on the analysis, four primary recommendations are proposed:
- Implementation of hybrid evaluation models that systematically integrate technical, sustainability, and economic criteria through key performance indicator-driven ma-trices.

- Comprehensive digitalization of procurement workflows, ensuring traceability, transparency, and accessibility of critical project documentation and communication.

- Enhanced contract monitoring through independent reviewers with clear sanctioning authority for deviations, particularly in relation to sustainability and social objec-tives.

- Mandatory training and continuous professional development for procurement offi-cials to ensure proficiency in legal, risk management, and assessment methodologies.
The study suggests the necessity of shifting from a price-centric to a value- and quality-oriented procurement paradigm, underpinned by digital tools and ongoing competence de-velopment, to achieve superior results in public construction projects. Clear risk and quality assessment models, together with an open and collaborative culture, are fundamental to maximizing public investment benefits and advancing sustainable societal development.

Popular Abstract (Swedish)

Public procurement is the foundation of many of the construction projects we take for granted in everyday life, such as schools, hospitals, properties, roads and bridges. But sometimes things go wrong. Costs skyrocket, quality falters and parties start arguing. In my degree project, I have examined why this is the case and how we can do better when the state, municipalities and regions are to purchase construction services.
I have interviewed both officials who commission construction projects and contractors who build them. I have also inspected three of Sweden's most talked about infrastructure projects: New Karolinska Solna, the West Link and the Hallandsås Tunnel. Together with a deep dive into previous research, this has provided a clear picture: the process of choosing who to build is often too narrow, rigid and sloppy follow-up.
What's the problem?
Too much focus is on the lowest price. The authorities often have too little control over what is required in practice and construction companies sometimes withhold important information in order to win the assignment. When communication, follow-up and understanding are lacking, it often leads to higher costs and a growing mountain of misunderstandings.
Why does this matter?
Public procurements involve billions of taxpayers' money. When they do not function as they should, the whole society loses. In addition, the rules for selection and follow-up are complicated and the information between the client and the builder does not always reach the customer. But used correctly, procurement can be a powerful tool for better build quality, for more innovation and for a better use of tax funds.
So what can we do?
My work results in four concrete proposals:
- Mix price and quality in procurement. A smarter model that weighs in sustainability, technology and economics can give better results than just staring at the price tag.
- Digitize more. By sharing information digitally, it becomes more difficult to hide things – and easier to keep track.
- Follow up smarter. Independent auditors should have more say when things go wrong.
- Educate people who procure. Many people responsible for billion-dollar projects have never been to a construction site themselves. More knowledge is needed about law, risk and reality.
When public money is used smarter, we get better schools, hospitals and roads without it costing more than necessary. If we can weigh quality and sustainability as heavily as price, we will have buildings and infrastructure that last longer and do more good for more people. In addition, the risk of costly delays and conflicts is reduced.
Something that surprised me?
Yes, how common it is that the parties do not talk to each other. The interviews showed that communication is often something you "try to keep up with", rather than something you prioritize. This creates mistrust, delays and sometimes conflicts that could have been avoided with a simple conversation. In some projects, contractors have deliberately withheld information about risks in order to win the contract. It may sound unbelievable, but it is a result of the system sometimes prioritizing the lowest price over honesty and long-termism. With better follow-up and more open communication, we can avoid such pitfalls
What can my work contribute?
By highlighting both system failures and concrete solutions, I want to help public developers and contractors find a more collaborative way forward. With better models, more transparency and the right skills, public construction projects can be both cheaper and better and thus provide more value for money.

• author: Olsson, Philip
• supervisor: Henrik Norinder
• organization: Construction Management
• alternative title: More efficient procurement processes - A system analysis of selection processes, communication and follow-up
• course: VBEM01 20251
• year: 2025
• type: H2 - Master's Degree (Two Years)
• subject: Technology and Engineering
• keywords: Upphandlingsprocesser, offentlig upphandling, LOU, systemanalys, transparens, kommunikation, bedömningsmallar
• publication/series: 0349–4969
• report number: 5740
• other publication id: ISRN LUTVDG/TVBP-25/5740-SE
• language: Swedish
• additional info: Examinator: Stefan Olander
• id: 9200752
• date added to LUP: 2025-06-19 09:35:32
• date last changed: 2025-06-19 09:41:54