Critical analysis of operating procedures for managing unsolicited proposals in public-private partnership (PPP): A Systematic literature review

Recognizing that effective management of unsolicited PPP proposals at the pre-construction stage requires adherence to a multitude of operating procedures, this study aims to identify the key procedures for managing unsolicited proposals (USPs) and to integrate them into a classification framework for improved understanding. The study accessed virtual journal libraries directly to retrieve relevant papers, supplemented by searches on Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. Through a systematic literature review of 30 publications, a total of 27 operating procedures were identified. These procedures were classified and integrated into a conceptual framework comprising four categories to enhance understanding: concept origination and review, proposal screening and approval, detailed bid preparation and evaluation, and project procurement. The developed framework serves as a reference point for industry practitioners and decision makers involved in the USP management cycle within PPPs. It can facilitate the development of appropriate and effective government policies to promote efficient USP management. Furthermore, the checklist and framework provide a strong foundation for researchers conducting further empirical investigations on this topic.