Procurement and contracting is now a highly complex and risk-laden undertaking in all sectors of public management. Decision-makers in this field must:
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be aware of planning cycles and processes to assess needs, demand and priorities
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have the ability to map and analyse markets (Determining primary objectives, segmentation, benefits and feature analysis; understanding different provider models, monopolies and networks; using theories of competitive advantage to enhance commissioner influence);
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have an in-depth understanding of procurement options (make-or-buy decisions; aggregated contracts; hybrid commissioner-provider organisations);
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understand approaches to the management of contractual relationships including: service specification, contract management; monitoring of providers and dealing with inadequate performance;
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understand procurement and contracting issues raised when service provision involves a network of several provider agents;
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have a sophisticated level of skill in market management (supplier development and supply chain management) as these apply to service development in the public sector;
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be able to design and implement effective contract negotiation strategies in;
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understand leadership and relationship management in procurement and quality and outcomes in contracting.
The module will explore all of these issues, considering the scope of UK public sector commissioning arrangements and similarities/differences across sectors, and introducing industry techniques for procurement and contracting and performance management. In all cases, the module will explore underlying theory and concepts in order to help unravel the current state of these issues and how students can further develop their understanding.
The module will examine a range of public service production models that decision-makers and managers are faced with routinely such as Public-Private Partnerships, Private Finance Initiatives, Trusts, Joint Ventures and modified forms of all of these. These are important in the UK as well as internationally. The module will explore how these institutional forms are evolving nationally and internationally with a view to ensuring students have the best possible level of knowledge in order to make decisions in the changing environment.
Finally, the module will also examine e-government in procurement and contracting, a major strategic and resource-related issue that decision-makers must understand and know how to integrate in strategic commissioning and procurement plans in their organisations. A key element here will be understanding key drivers associated with e-government and e-procurement, and learning the control of risk inherent in integrated and shared services.