Electronic public procurement system in construction projects within the local public sector : an analysis

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyse and see whether the Electronic Public Procurement System (e-PPS) in construction projects within the Local Public Sector is proving to be an effective and/or efficient process, to examine if the type of training offered is meeting the needs for good practice, whether participation has increased/decreased in relation to the traditional method and if the system is more user friendly than the previous practice of tendering. The research objectives were attained through the use of both the qualitative and quantitative research methods. Six semi-structured interviews were conducted in total: three with representatives of the economic operators, two with procurement officials from the contracting authorities and with a director from the department of contracts. Furthermore survey questionnaires were sent through a typical on line survey software to contracting authorities that are schedule 2 of the public procurement regulations and to economic operators that are registered with the electronic public procurement system as building contractors. The research was supplemented by other resources such as journals, books, articles and dissertations. This study revealed that the majority of the stakeholders had positive comments about the electronic public procurement system but most of them, believe that there exist some shortcomings and that the Department of Contracts is able to make all the necessary enhancements where required. Contracting authorities believe that the system is attracting more participants’ particularly foreign economic operators. All participants agree that the system has cost benefits over the traditional method and that it is more user friendly. Referring to training all stakeholders believe that training is an essential contributor to the system and has to be improved. This study concluded that ongoing training is essential and a way by which to measure efficiency and effectiveness in relation to the traditional tendering method has to be identified. This research raises awareness that the system needs various kinds of enhancements in different areas for a better performance. This research has put forward a number of recommendations for the attention of policy makers that will contribute towards making this system more efficient and effective.