What is AVA (tender, award, billing)?
AVA is an abbreviation originating from German construction practice, standing for Ausschreibung, Vergabe, Abrechnung — meaning tender, award, and billing. It describes the structured administrative process that covers the full financial and contractual handling of a construction project, from the initial call for bids through to final settlement.
Application
The AVA process is a cornerstone of professional construction project management, particularly in German-speaking countries, though the underlying principles apply universally. It consists of three distinct phases:
Tender (Ausschreibung): In this phase, detailed specifications and bills of quantities are prepared. Contractors are invited to submit their bids. The tender can be open, restricted, or negotiated, depending on the project size and applicable procurement regulations.
Award (Vergabe): The received bids are systematically evaluated and compared. Based on predefined criteria such as price, quality, and scheduling, the contract is awarded to the most suitable contractor. This results in a formal construction contract.
Billing (Abrechnung): During and after completion of the construction work, all financial matters are settled. This includes progress payments, documentation of change orders, and the final account.
Dedicated AVA software helps architects, engineers, and construction firms manage all three phases efficiently. These tools enable the creation of specifications, price comparisons, and seamless cost tracking throughout the project lifecycle.
Related terms
- Bill of quantities
- Procurement
- Change order
- Final account
- Construction contract
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