RFQ for A/E Services MUS Space Utilization Study

TO: ALL ARCHITECTS/ENGINEERS OF RECORD
FROM: Russ Katherman, Administrator
Architecture & Engineering Division
1500 East Sixth Avenue
P O Box 200103
Helena MT 59620-0103
DATE: April 28, 2026
RE: REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
Firms interested in being considered for an interview for project on the
attached pages must follow these procedures:
* Submit Form 115 through the State's eMACS system,
https://solutions.sciquest.com/apps/Router/SupplierLogin?CustOrg=StateOfM
ontana. Information in addition to the 115 is acceptable.
* Submissions must be submitted no later than 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, May
21, 2026
* Submissions received after the deadline may result in rejection.
* The procedure for selection will be in accordance with 18-8-204 MCA.
Firms selected for an interview:
* Will be given project-specific initial information, interview topics/questions,
and the interview schedule.
* Will be asked to present their credentials before an interview committee. The
committee will then submit the names of three (3) qualified firms to the Dept.
of Administration Director, who will appoint one firm for each project in
accordance with 18-2-112 MCA.
The State of Montana makes reasonable accommodations for any known disability that may interfere with an applicant's
ability to compete in the application and selection process or that may interfere with an applicant's ability to perform the
essential duties of the job. In order for the State to make such accommodations, applicants must make known any needed
accommodation to the individual project managers or agency contacts listed. Persons using TDD may call the Montana
Relay Service at 1-800-253-4091.

STATE OF MONTANA * DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION * ARCHITECTURE & ENGINEERING DIVISION
1520 EAST SIXTH AVE * PO BOX 200103 * HELENA MT 59620
406.444.3104 * DOAAEDivision@mt.gov * architecture.mt.gov
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ)
MUS - SPACE UTILIZATION STUDY- Phase I
A/E#: 2026-30-01
1. INTRODUCTION
The State of Montana, Department of Administration, Architecture & Engineering Division (A&E), in
partnership with the Montana University System (MUS), is soliciting Statements of Qualifications (SOQs)
from qualified architectural and A&E firms to perform a comprehensive Space Utilization Study across
designated MUS campuses.
2. PROJECT BACKGROUND & PURPOSE
The Study will establish baseline space utilization datasets and create utilization metrics, to provide a
foundation for campus space management programs. Additionally, this work will identify opportunities for
effective use, consolidation and modernization of campus space, and providing recommendations
supporting LRBP planning and campus-level capital decision-making.
3. SCOPE OF SERVICES
1. Data Collection & Inventory Standardization
2. Space Utilization Auditing and Analysis in accordance with the Postsecondary Education Facilities
Inventory and Classification Manual.
3. Integration of Space Utilization Data into existing or new Space Management platforms, initially at
University of Montana and potentially additional campuses.
4. GIS /CAD/ Digital Deliverables Compatible for Integration with FAMIS Space Module.
5. Final Reporting & Recommendations
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4. PROJECT PHASING
Phase 1 - will focus on initial MUS Campuses and establish methods for future expansion. Deliverables will
include campus-level reports, utilization metrics, and recommended priorities.
Future phases of work may include campus facility and infrastructure planning on one or more campuses.
5. PROPOSER QUALIFICATIONS
* Experience with higher-education space utilization studies
* Experience with campus master planning
* Data analytics / GIS capability
* Montana-licensed A/E team or partnerships
* Capacity to begin work in 2026
6. SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
* Cover Letter
* Team Qualifications
* Relevant Project Experience
* Technical Approach
* Project Schedule
* References
7. UPDATED EVALUATION CRITERIA
Criterion Weight
Space Utilization Expertise 25%
Campus Master Planning Experience 20%
Data / GIS Capability 15%
Local Presence (MT) 15%
MT Higher-Ed Track Record 15%
Capacity / Availability 10%
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8. PROCUREMENT PROCESS
The RFQ process includes posting in eMACS, a written Q&A period, evaluation of SOQs, shortlisting,
interviews (if required), recommendation to A&E leadership, and final approval through the Department of
Administration.
9. SCHEDULE - Tentative and subject to change by the Owner.
RFQ Release: April 28, 2026
Response Deadline: May 21, 2026
Shortlist: June 2026
Interviews: July 2026
Selection Recommendation , July 2026
Appointment: July 2026
10. CONTACT INFORMATION
Project Contact: Jon Stone, A&E Div., LRBP , Planning Manager, 406.444.5463, Jon.Stone@mt.gov
11. RIGHTS RESERVED
The State reserves the right to reject any or all submissions and to modify or cancel this RFQ at any time.
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