Some organizations do not challenge or check when their business or legal counsel note that they cannot change current practice in doing special partnerships. In my experience, however, most rules have been self-imposed and often restrict projects. Two of my most successful partnerships were nearly killed when restrictions were assumed to be in effect. When the law was checked, it was discovered that local counsel was operating from an unduly narrow perspective and was not current on the full use of available legal options. Avoidance of Risk.
Most organizations operate from convenience of time, habit, and risk-aversion perspectives.
It is often easier to note what cannot be done or what is cost prohibitive than to research alternatives that must be explained. Every time this happens, students and faculty stand to lose opportunities. In a good partnership, a performance bid allows for a well-articulated outcome to be met flexibly. It requires expertise-based judgment in comparing responses. When a bid process is not required, a performance contract insures that both parties in the partnership work to meet overall project goals, rather than argue about change orders.