Renovation and replacement (R&R) projects in public infrastructure are becoming increasingly complex, due to factors such as scope uncertainty, operational constraints, and the involvement of multiple stakeholder interests. Prior research has shown that for a successful delivery of complex projects it is essential to award contracts based on quality aspects, such as the contractor’s ability to manage complexity, rather than relying solely on price.

However, there is limited empirical evidence on the extent to which public clients translate project complexity into award criteria. This study addresses that gap by examining the case of ProRail, the Dutch railway infrastructure manager, and its use of award criteria in recent R&R tenders. It aims to analyze to what extent project complexity is translated into award criteria for the procurement of these projects. The research combines qualitative insights from interviews on perceived project complexity with a quantitative analysis of the award criteria and their weightings in four recent ProRail R&R tenders.

Findings reveal a partial but positive relationship: in more complex R&R projects, ProRail uses more project-specific quality criteria that are related to project complexity. Projects that were perceived as less complex relied more on ambition-related award criteria and price. Interview participants also mentioned that at ProRail technical complexity was addressed through strict requirements and not through award criteria, while organizational and environmental complexity were more translated into award criteria to create differentiation between bidders.

The research offers a first empirical foundation for understanding how a public client incorporates project complexity into its procurement practices. Although this study focuses only on ProRail, its findings and recommendations are relevant for other public infrastructure clients and can serve as a basis for future research into the alignment between project complexity and procurement strategies.

Located in Suriname, the village of Ricanau Mofo faces a multitude of environmental challenges. This report delves into a comprehensive study that employed a multidisciplinary approach, leveraging the expertise of students from various backgrounds to address these pressing issues.

The most critical concern identified was the relentless erosion of the riverbank, forming an existential threat to the village. The report explores interventions for both riverbank and soil erosion. Building upon the previous year's sheet pile wall construction by van Dongen et al. (2023), the report evaluates its effectiveness and proposes potential improvements for natural shore protection. It presents an analysis of structural solutions like sheet pile walls and quay walls, alongside nature-based methods that promote vegetation growth. A multi-criteria analysis is employed to objectively evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of each intervention.

Moving beyond the riverbank, the report investigates soil erosion in Ricanau Mofo's old center. To understand the water flow patterns, a hydrological analysis was conducted. This analysis incorporated field measurements, on-site observations, and existing scientific reports. By considering factors like clay content, vegetation cover, discharge, and slope, the study categorized different flow areas within the village center. This detailed analysis lead to the proposal of a combination of targeted interventions, including roof gutters, strategic vegetation planting, and channel improvements, all aimed at effectively addressing drainage issues and mitigating soil erosion.

Waste management emerged as another critical concern. The report sheds light on the impact of inadequate waste collection systems on hygiene and even the success of other implemented solutions. Recognizing the importance of community involvement, the report proposes a roadmap and implements a physical prototype for establishing a more organized and effective waste management system, promoting a sense of shared responsibility for a cleaner Ricanau Mofo.

This report illustrates the value of a multidisciplinary approach. By combining diverse expertise and conducting thorough analyses, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of Ricanau Mofo's environmental challenges. The proposed solutions for riverbank and soil erosion control, improved drainage, and effective waste management offer a sustainable path forward for the village's future development.