A number of the issues described above have drawn attention to the role of skilled specialists in the development of partnerships. A particularly notable aspect of the PPP procurement process is the need for expertise in a number of areas. Given the long-term nature of some forms of contracts, it is not always necessary for municipal officials to acquire skill`s, as they might never use them again in the course of a 30-year career. But it is essential that municipal leaders have the knowledge and capacity to brief specialists, and to manage and maximise their inputs. In many cases it is necessary to promote the idea of bringing in such expertise before consultants are appointed, to ensure that key decision-makers are willing to listen to and work with outsiders. It is also necessary to know how the funding for this technical assistance can be obtained. In most cases it is funded by donors, but the sustainability of this mechanism must be called into question as the partnership approach spreads.