For a consistent and streamlined approach to contract management, all Council’s contracts will be managed and supervised by a new centralised unit. With work ranging from infrastructure through to consultancies being contracted out, the Contracts Unit places Playford in the box seat should legislation be introduced requiring Councils to market test more of their activities.
The Unit is developing policies and procedures, along with a training program for staff, to assist them in developing specifications and monitoring their own contracts. However, the Unit will be responsible for controlling and supervising all contract arrangements from this one central point.
Staff training will cover the formation of contracts, particularly the need to be explicit regarding specifications and expected outcomes, based on the premise ‘you will only get what you ask for’.
Evaluation criteria, linked back to the contract’s specifications, is also being developed. Kerry Fisher, Manager Contracts, said that while competitive tendering is not compulsory in South Australia, it is worth going down this track for several reasons.
The process encourages staff to look at how they could deliver services more efficiently. It also encourages work units to develop a more commercial approach and educates staff in the whole process of contract design and the pitfalls to be avoided. Importantly, should competitive tendering become compulsory or a more commonplace form of service delivery, staff will be familiar with the process and fully prepared to submit internal bids.
For further information contact Kerry Fisher, Manager Contracts, telephone (08) 8254 0222.
