Procurement of services in the public sector

  • D. Marcer
Cambridge Academic price £11.95; pp 112 ISBN 9781903499740 | ISBN: 978-1-9034-9974-0

At a glance, this may not be everyone's first choice book to read. However, if you dare to delve beyond the seemingly uninspiring exterior, you will soon find this to be an insightful and interesting read. Whilst it is aimed at complete beginners in any size business or service in the health and public sectors, this book is also highly recommended to those in specialty registrar training who require a thorough understanding of management and systems within the NHS.

The author aims to demystify the procurement process, providing clear and concise definitions throughout, guiding the reader through a step-by-step approach to each stage of the procurement process. This includes guidance and advice on where to find public sector procurement notices, all the way through to the signing of contracts. The author highlights the key legalities and procedures involved in procurement, as well as drawing on personal experience in how to avoid common pitfalls. The author has experience in providing procurement advice at both local and central government levels, as well as in the NHS.

Bidding for a service contract in the public sector can be confusing for even the most experienced bidder, but the current procurement regulations are neatly explained here. A bidder can be assured that the author will instil confidence and clarity in the process, along with elements of good humour as well. Advice is given on how to make a profit whilst remaining competitive in the chosen public sector market.

The book would also be useful for those who have perhaps got into difficulties and require assistance in how to proceed with their bid in service contracts. Examples include when and how to challenge an unsuccessful bid and when to seek legal advice. The author also provides highly beneficial information on both simple and complex pricing of bids, negotiations and contract technicalities.

Specialty registrars in training within the NHS should most certainly use this book as a comprehensive and easy to read guide to procurement of services in the public sector. It will help to provide a thorough understanding of the process and enable registrars to confidently and competently answer any question on procurement in the final management exams held at the end of training.

In summary, there is certainly more to this book than meets the eye and I highly recommend it. It successfully achieves all of its objectives with an educational yet informal approach.