The availability of non-reimbursable funds for water supply networks has made the public procurement of construction work in this sector of particular interest in terms of performance. The purpose of this research is to identify key issues and patterns emerging from the engagement between Romanian contracting entities awarding such construction contracts and economic operators. The engagement is materialized through rounds of clarification requests during the offer preparation stage. Following the analysis of the specialized literature, it was found that the subject was not addressed in many scientific publications. The research undertaken was an empirical analysis of selected tenders. The research methodology focuses on the qualitative analysis of publicly available questions and responses, complemented by the analysis of numerical data relating to the same tenders. From the study, it results that a high percentage of all questions analyzed target the technical requirements of the contract notice documents. In some instances, the same questions are found in multiple tenders. Tender evaluation periods are lengthy. The tenders are published with a similar strategic profile (e.g., open tendering, no division into lots) and participation is dominated by bidder associations of multiple economic operators. This study concludes that the quality of the technical requirements does not support the type of strategic profile employed by the contracting entities. The rigidity of written communication makes it unsuitable to mitigate the negative effects of a flawed approach in developing technical requirements for high value, high complexity projects directly connected with Romania’s public water supply challenges.
How to develop a career in procurement and supply chain
We are happy to announce that, together with the Research Centre of “Politehnica” University Timişoara, Romania, we are organising another exciting procurement webinar dedicated to the Romanian market. We continue this novel collaboration between academia and reputable practitioners, which provides a valuable multidimensional perspective on procurement challenges and opportunities.
On this webinar, we want to discuss how younger generations could develop and sustain a career in procurement and supply chain, especially during times of increasing uncertainty and constant change. Adriana Mutiu Mircea Negrut Wiktor Rak, MCIPS would like to explore this topic with you alongside panellists with a strong procurement and supply chain background.
Value slipping through your fingers: enhanced procurement contributing to the success of your company
It was exactly two years ago when Europe was struck by the pandemic outbreak. No sector remained intact. Procurement professionals had to face price and availability fluctuations. This reshaped our perspective on how a resilient and successful business operates. They incorporate diversification of supply, high situation awareness and decisions based on data, information, insights and problem-solving mindset.
On 24th of February 2022 we awoke to a different world again. Many supply chains, which were already reshaping, have been destroyed. Procurement professionals must adapt again. Regardless of the size of the company or of its branch, effective procurement function is a key factor to survive. We would like to explore this topic together with you.