Introduction

1.1  The focus of the framework is on the activities to be undertaken during the operational phase of the contract, i.e. after the contract has been awarded and once the service is up and running. This fits within the 'contract management' domain of our commercial relationships audit framework published in November 2016. This good practice framework defines the four blocks - structure and resources, delivery, development, and strategy - comprising 11 areas (Figure 1) that organisations should consider when planning and delivering contract management. It outlines, the key activities that fall under each of the 11 areas.

The good practice contract management framework

1.2  The framework has particular relevance to service contracts (covering information and communications technology, facilities management and business processes) where service levels and value have to be maintained and improved often over long contract periods.