We are now well into the improvement programme for procurement in the public sector and much good work has been carried out and best practice enhanced.

However, the recent capability reviews and changes in legislation, policy, procurement techniques and technology require of us even more effort, as we try to advance the role of procurement in delivering improved public sector services by whomever they may be delivered.

Are we capable of delivering the additional
demands being made on us?

Are we culpable in terms of not delivering
all of what was asked of us in the past?

These are questions we can only answer ourselves. SOPO’s view is that we have advanced considerably in what have been challenging times both economically and in terms of change, but we may have been found wanting in some circumstances as the demand on our time has increased and the resources to enable us to carry out our tasks have reduced. We therefore need to look in different directions to secure the help from others that is readily available but sometimes ignored. We need to embrace best practice, acquire new skills and knowledge to meet changing roles and search out markets and supply chains to find new and innovative solutions.