Effective contract and portfolio management

Projects and programmes should be built on a robust contractual relationship overseen by an appropriately qualified contract manager with a clear operational understanding of the contract.

How a contract will be managed is a key strategic decision which needs adequate consideration early in the procurement process and should be reflected in the contractual agreement. In line with the expectation to adopt a portfolio approach for procuring projects and programmes, contracting authorities should consider a strategic portfolio approach to the management of contracts (see below on strategic supplier relationship management).

"Acting together with suppliers drives mutual understanding, improves delivery and helps to solve problems more effectively."

Good contract management involves a wide range of activities and government's most important contracts should be managed by an expert or practitioner accredited contract manager as set out in the Contract Management Professional Standards framework.