Harnessing the Supply Chain Attributes in the Contractor Evaluation Matrix: Empirical Analysis of the Influence of Supply Chain Attributes

Through a systematic review of the literature, this study identifies a gap in thecurrent evaluation criteria for contractor competence that often overlooks thecritical supply chain attributes that influence project success. This studyinvestigated the mediating roles of supply chain commitment, collaboration, andresilience in the relationship between contractor competence and the success ofpublic projects. It posits that successful public projects necessitate not onlyproficient contractors but also a resilient and cooperative supply chain,especially in the context of disruptions such as those caused by the COVID-19pandemic. Utilising a quantitative research methodology and data from projectstakeholders in Tanzania, this study reveals that while contractor competence islinked to public project success, it is insufficient without the mediating effects ofsupply chain collaboration and resilience. The findings indicate that supply chainresilience significantly enhances the positive relationship between contractorcompetence and public project success, whereas supply chain commitment doesnot exhibit a mediating effect. This study underscores the necessity for publicprocurement entities to incorporate supply chain dynamics into contractorevaluation criteria to mitigate project delays, cost overruns, and quality issues,thereby fostering improved project outcomes. This study contributes to thediscourse on public project management by emphasising the interdependence ofcontractor competence and supply chain attributes in achieving project success.