Get more information
When news broke of the Procurement Act delay until February 2025, many organisations breathed a sigh of relief. Preparations slowed, and some teams eased the pressure on their preperations.
However, my advice is quite the opposite. Public sector organisations should increase their efforts now, not pause them. Treat the end of this year as an unofficial deadline. By doing so, you will be fully prepared well before the official date.
The delay offers a valuable opportunity. You can use these extra months as a trial period. This is the perfect time to stress-test new procedures, especially around transparency requirements. As a result, the lessons you learn will strengthen resources, training, communication, documentation, and most importantly, processes.
The delay may have been welcome news for many in your supply chain. It offers potential contract extensions and pushes back the requirement for transparency in performance metrics. However, some suppliers also report that communication from buyers has been limited.
“Use this extended timeframe to liaise with your suppliers. Inform them of your preparation strategies and explain how the forthcoming changes will impact them.”
Many suppliers, large and small, still have not heard from their customers. While internal processes are important, it is equally vital to bring suppliers along on this compliance journey. For example, you can direct them to government resources such as the Transforming Public Procurement web pages. These provide simple updates written specifically for suppliers.
In addition, building a reputation as a proactive and responsive customer now will bring benefits later. As a result, your organisation will be better positioned when tendering new contracts after 24 February 2025.
Compared to the 2015 Public Contracts Regulations rollout, the government now offers more training resources. Many public organisations have already registered for modules. However, some are yet to begin.
Too often, procurement becomes an afterthought in the middle of daily responsibilities. With the new rules, public service managers will take on extra roles in contract management. Therefore, their understanding of supplier performance reporting is essential.
“Procurement can no longer be just an afterthought; it requires proactive attention and comprehensive training.”
Now is the right time to assess the level of knowledge across your organisation. In addition, you should deploy a clear approach using guidance, training, and templates. All of these are available through the government’s website. Each stage of the procurement process is covered by this procurement guidance collection of resources.
The Cabinet Office also provides eLearning options for everyone, from executives to procurement professionals. In addition, the Procurement Pathway tool includes a set of standard templates for procurement documentation.
The transition to the new rules will unfold gradually. However, there are several key dates you must track:
Do not let the delayed start date create a false sense of comfort. Instead, keep moving forward with your planning. As a result, your organisation will be ready when the new rules take effect.
Forward planning should include setting KPIs, creating governance frameworks, and introducing new policies. In addition, continued progress in these areas will ensure your organisation stays on target. This preparation will help you operate successfully under the new regulations.
At Inprova, we are here to help. Our consultancy services guide public sector organisations through regulatory change with tailored support and expert advice. Contact us today to make sure your organisation is ready to excel now and in the future.
By Guy Stapleford, Head of Consultancy Services at Inprova
This article was originally published in Inside Housing: Read original article here.
