Chapter 2 – Public procurement systems
The ultimate goal is to ensure that the government receives goods or services for which it has contracted and the contractor receives payment. Contract administration activities vary by the nature, scope and type of contract. They include: Monitoring contract performance (technical, schedule and cost); Modifying the contract to accommodate changing needs or circumstances; Resolving disputes; Conducting a final accounting; Closing out the contract.
Policy objectives Public procurement takes place within a legal and regulatory framework with specific policy objectives. These objectives may be enshrined in national constitutions, national legislation, government and agency regulations or policy statements. These policy objectives help shape each phase of the procurement process. While policy objectives vary, common themes have been identified: Value for money. A major goal is to obtain suitable goods, works or services in an economically efficient manner and on the best possible terms. This does not necessarily mean obtaining goods, works or services at the lowest price. Integrity. Goods, works and services should be acquired without corruption and conflicts of interest. Corruption takes many forms and includes practices such as bribery, collusion, fraud and kickbacks. Conflicts of interest can be personal or organizational. The integrity of the public procurement system is an important policy objective in its own right. It also helps ensure value for money by eliminating the economic inefficiencies inherent in corrupt practices and conflicts of interest. Accountability. Interested parties, such as the general public or prospective contractors, require the means to verify whether the government is complying with the law and regulations, as well as fulfilling its responsibilities. Accountability and transparency also contributes to value for money and integrity of the system.
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Empowering women through public PROCUREMENT