AIIA believes that efficient and effective procurement of ICT by governments delivers transformative opportunities for government in the delivery of services to citizens; facilitates industry development for the ICT sector and underpins the development of non ICT sectors; and ensures accountability and transparency for all stakeholders. There are current best practice procurement models across Australia’s jurisdictions that AIIA supports and has contributed to either through policy advice or practical implementation, such as drafting improved terms and conditions for government use.  Following is a summary of some of those models. 

The early involvement of suppliers in the development of technology-enabled business change projects in the public sector is one of the best ways to eliminate waste and potential project failure. One of the key challenges facing the public sector is how to transform policy ideas into the desired outcomes, particularly when this involves IT-enabled business change. Concepts that appear straightforward can be both difficult and risky to execute, especially when the technology is new or emerging, or when transaction volumes are very high. Early and non-competitive engagement allows suppliers to show the client how the market can, or cannot, meet their need.  It provides early visibility to key risks and issues, giving suppliers the opportunity to manage expectations of what the market can and cannot contribute to the proposed program.  In a recent concept viability project managed by AIIA for the federal government, AIIA facilitated the early engagement of the market in meeting business needs of selected local councils wishing to become NBN-enabled to improve service delivery to their constituents.  

Setting targets for the intelligent application of technology engenders certainty and enables planning.  South Australia’s recent commitment to increasing the proportion of businesses receiving online orders from 24% to 40% by 2014 is a welcome development for the ICT sector, and one easily emulated by other states.  

Working closely with government officials, AIIA industry representatives have re-drafted clauses in IT contracts to deliver cost savings to government and suppliers, speedier contract negotiation times and increased clarity in contractual requirements. This two-year project has been characterised by high levels of commitment from both government and industry, including one change of government.  AIIA is especially pleased with the NSW government’s strong direction and message to agencies to adopt the new contractual framework and has urged other state governments to review the progress made to date.  

Victoria’s e-services panel has been a successful tool in encouraging SME’s to sell to government via a streamlined RFT process and mandated use by Budget funded government agencies.  It can be accessed by purchasers through Eservices Online and includes contracts that exceed $1 million. Services covered include Strategy and Analysis,Architecture and Design,Systems and Solutions,Web Hosting, and Training. 

 

- Discussion Paper on Procurement Best Practice

- White Paper - Best practices for NSW Government to procure ICT goods and services

- Practice Guide - Navigating Software Procurement