Public procurement
Public procurement is the process through which governments and other public bodies acquire goods, services, and construction work using public funds.
Needs assessment: A structured process for identifying and defining a problem, demand, or service requirement. It establishes what a public body needs before choosing a purchase or supplier.
Public sector: The part of society made up of government and publicly controlled organizations. Public bodies are the buyers whose purchasing activity constitutes public procurement.
Public-private partnership: A long-term arrangement in which a private entity helps finance, build, or operate public infrastructure or services. It combines procurement with private financing and extended delivery responsibilities.
Private procurement: The process by which private organizations acquire goods, services, or construction work. Unlike public buyers, private organizations generally face different transparency and procedural duties.
Transparency (behavior): Openness about decisions, processes, and information that enables scrutiny and accountability. Publishing procurement information helps expose favoritism and explain awards.
Request for proposals: A solicitation inviting suppliers to propose solutions, prices, and delivery plans for a defined requirement. It is a common route when public bodies compare proposed approaches as well as prices.
Public finance: The management of government revenue, expenditure, borrowing, and financial obligations. Procurement commits public funds and must fit public budgeting and accountability.
Defense procurement: Government purchasing of military equipment, services, and infrastructure. It illustrates procurement under security, secrecy, and complex technical requirements.
Direct award: A contract award made to a supplier without an open competitive procedure. It is an exception to competition-based purchasing and requires a valid justification.
Public accountability: The obligation of public officials and institutions to explain decisions and answer for their conduct. Procurement decisions involve public money and require reviewable responsibility.