NAO audit framework

Contract management

5. Is the contract being managed well, with costs and benefits being realised as expected?

5.1  Do the department and the contractor have comprehensive knowledge of service performance?

5.2  Is the contractor providing a service in accordance with the contract and are they actively managed by the department to meet or exceed requirements?

5.3  Is the department meeting its obligations?

Examples of relevant guidance

NAO good practice contract management framework

5.1 Service management is well structured; baselines are understood by both parties, and suppliers understand the service they are required to deliver. The contract manager ensures that the customer organisation provides the supplier with the information and contacts needed to deliver he service.

5.6  Clear processes are in place to handle operational problem resolution and resolve issues as quickly as possible.

5.7  Where appropriate, user compliance with the contract is monitored and managed to ensure maximum operational effectiveness and value for money.

Crown Commercial Service contract management principles

2  Be clear about accountability, roles and responsibilities. Ensure contract ownership, management processes and governance mechanisms are clear with defined roles and responsibilities at appropriate levels of seniority. Make sure contracts have a documented Contract Management Plan.

Government Commercial Function - Government Commercial Operating Standards Iteration ii

6.4 Departments will have a mechanism for tracking the deliverability of mobilisation obligations.