Use of Best Value Model to Achieve Sustainability: A Case Study on a Semiconductor Manufacturer

The role of a Facility Manager (FM) has evolved tremendously in the last couple of decades. FM's are not only expected to operate and maintain the facility at the highest quality possible but also emerge as leaders in their organization using sustainable practices. Moreover FM's are expected to achieve more with limited budget. An FM for the local semiconductor manufacturing company in Phoenix, AZ realized to be environmental conscious and that he had to change the traditional way of hiring the vendors. FM partnered with Arizona State University (ASU) to assist the manufacturing company in outsourcing their waste management services. Previous research at ASU has indicated that one of the important factors in achieving a sustainable product / service is by hiring expert vendors based on value rather than low price. An expert vendor is not only able to plan and minimize the risks before they are encountered but also able to deliver a quality end product / service for an FM. This paper focuses on a case study of a best value model implemented by a semiconductor FM in Phoenix, AZ to procure waste management vendor for their recycling, shredding and trash services. The paper also focuses on the challenges faced in implementing the model and the lessons learned. It was concluded that the outsourcing sustainable practices using best value approach is successful and can be used as a model for others to follow.