Public procurement in 2023: Trends & predictions

Public procurement is constantly evolving. As technology advances and organisations prioritise efficiency and transparency, we can expect to see some exciting changes in the way public procurement is conducted. Here are some trends to watch out for in 2023.

Increased use of e-procurement platforms

E-procurement platforms allow organisations to streamline the procurement process by automating many of the manual tasks involved. These platforms can be used to post bid opportunities, receive and evaluate bids, and award contracts. E-procurement platforms can also improve transparency by providing a centralised location for all procurement-related documents and information.

Greater use of data analytics

Data analytics can help organisations make more informed decisions by providing insights into past performance, market trends, and supplier capabilities. By analysing this data, they can identify the most qualified suppliers, negotiate better prices, and reduce the risk of fraud and corruption.

Increased emphasis on sustainability

As concerns about the environment and social responsibility grow, we can expect to see more organisations to prioritise sustainability in their procurement processes. This may involve setting sustainability criteria for bids, requiring suppliers to meet certain environmental or social standards, or incorporating sustainability goals into the evaluation of bids.

More use of alternative procurement methods

Traditionally, public procurement has relied on sealed bids or competitive proposals. However, there are a number of alternative procurement methods that may be more suitable for certain types of projects. These methods include design-build, construction management at risk, and public-private partnerships. By considering these alternative methods, they can potentially save time and money, and deliver projects more efficiently.

More focus on small and diverse businesses

More organisations are starting to recognise the importance of supporting small and diverse businesses, and we can expect to see more efforts to include these businesses in the procurement process. This may involve setting aside a certain percentage of contracts for small businesses, or implementing programs to help small businesses compete for larger contracts.

In conclusion, the future of public procurement is bright, with new technologies and approaches helping to improve efficiency, transparency, and sustainability. By embracing these trends, organisations and governments can better serve the needs of their customers and the broader community.