ABSTRACT
Modern developments in procurement systems and procurement strategy have been based on a series of principles that guide clients in their choice of approach (see Figure 10.1). Key issues, from the client viewpoint and a governance perspective, are as follows. The procurement system adopted must be efficient and the process of procurement must be auditable. Furthermore, a clear line of accountability is important and the systems adopted must be effective. The old adage about performance still holds true: efficiency is about doing things right and effectiveness is about doing the right things. This leads to a contingency view of procurement systems in that we need to apply an appropriate system to the circumstances in which we find ourselves. In the case of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) this means that we should choose first of all to go down the PPP route only when circumstances indicate that it is best or fit for purpose.
