Designer Selection Panel FAQ's

Q:  Can our district select any architect/designer that we want? 

 A: Under the MSBA’s statute and regulations, for projects with an estimated construction cost in excess of $5 million, the district will need to select a designer through the MSBA’s Designer Selection Panel (DSP).  The district will be responsible for issuing a request for qualifications for designers.  The DSP will evaluate the qualifications statements received and will refer a ranked list of up to three firms to the district.  It is expected that the district will enter into a contract with the top-ranked firm.  The DSP consists of 15 members, 12 permanent members and three members appointed by the school district.

Q: If I’ve already procured an architect, do I need to go through the process again with the MSBA Designer Selection Panel?

 A:  MSBA will determine the status on a case-by-case-basis.  If substantial study/design work is already completed, it may not be necessary to re-procure designer services.  If little design work has been performed and/or the procurement took place after the moratorium was lifted (after July 1, 2007) the MSBA will likely require that designer services be procured through the Designer Selection Panel (DSP).