This matrix outlines a typical sequence of steps during contract management and the key stakeholder groups and documents involved:

Legend

Senior manager / steering committee

User groups

Contract management team

Specialist advisers

Contractor

Risk plan

Financial plan

Contract management plan

Contract-general conditions and provisions

Contract -service specification

Contract-performance management arrangements

Performance reports and invoices

Steering committee reports (or equivalent)

User group news letter or equivalent

Action or step:

Commencement

Review and update risk assessments

Finalise any procedural aspects

Ensure all parties understand the contract

Review and update contract management plan

Double check insurances and indemnities

Arrange contractor access and others as needed

Ongoing operations (for example monthly)

Contractor delivers services

Contractor invoices

Contractor provides performance information

Contract manager assesses performance

Contract manager makes appropriate payments

Contract manager keeps stakeholders informed

Contract manager resolves problems

Formal contract review (for example 3 or 6 monthly)

Contract manager collects cyclic performance information (e.g. user surveys)

Action or step:

Contract manager assesses performance

Review and update of risk plan

Review and update of contract management plan

Report to senior management on status, issues, recommended actions

Complete or schedule actions arising

Keep stakeholders informed

Note: the above action and responsibility summary is indicative of common arrangements. Details will vary depending on the entity's particular circumstances and the nature of each contract.