This research adopts an intentional perspective on the operating phase of PPP and the public partner's involvement in this. It focuses on the elements of partnership, risk and performance management. This means that other factors that may contribute towards achieving VfM outcomes for PPP are excluded from the deeper investigation, although they may be dealt with to some extent in the literature review chapters. Moreover, PPP for this research is considered as a means for augmenting other procurement methods. The research is not intended to support a view that PPP is a panacea or replacement for alternative procurement types. Nor is it intended to promote PPP as the 'ideal' method of procurement for the delivery of assets and public services.