NZ Government Procurement is set for an overhaul with data, digital, leadership and skills development all part of the grand plans unveiled in a cabinet paper.
The government has earmarked a programme of work structured under three strategic focus areas: ‘Data and transparency’; ‘Working together as one’; and ‘Unlocking value’.
The government procurement system is not delivering value in ways that the Government and our communities expect, the cabinet paper says.
“As a consequence, a major overhaul of the procurement system including its processes and culture is now underway.”
Minister for Economic and Regional Development Stuart Nash, who penned the paper, says he expects the delivery of several projects by the conclusion of 2022.
These are:
- A widely-accessible early dashboard on spend analysis, sector performance and procurement capabilities based on the integration of existing data
- Phase one of a digital procurement platform allowing agencies and suppliers to move to a digital environment
- An agreed sector leadership model
- Professional development arrangements and encourage a culture of collaboration.
The Government spends about $51.5 billion annually on goods and services.
Minister Nash in the paper says the government is working on the aim to have a one-stop-shop digital ecosystem.
“Digital platforms and tools are the foundation that will enable the digital transformation of the procurement system,” he said.
“The aim is to create a one-stopshop e-procurement ecosystem where information, tools and opportunities are all accessible, timely and targeted, making it easier for agencies and suppliers to do business.”
A Request for Information to providers of digital procurement software was undertaken by the NZ government in February to gain information on what is available in the market.
The government says is engaging with procurement agencies to identify where co-design and collaboration can support the formation of the most effective digital platforms.