Page 67 - Procurement guidelines for smart sustainable cities - A U4SSC deliverable

4 Practical steps to take towards smart sustainable procurement

This section provides step-by-step guidance for commissioning digital products or services for
governments, which includes dos and don’ts to ensure fair and transparent procurement.

4.1 Planning

Explore and define needs before deciding on the best approach to deliver them.

Overview

The planning stage of any procurement should involve public officials and stakeholders learning
about:

• who they are buying a product or service for
• why they are procuring it

• who to consult from their organization

• what technology is appropriate in the market
• how to ensure value for money

• whether it meet the needs of persons with disabilities

Exploring all of these areas may involve time and effort but it will ensure that public officials and
stakeholders deliver appropriate solutions, for their organization and for end users.

Additional guidance has also been produced in these Guidelines to help public officials and
stakeholders plan for buying effectively during an emergency.

4.1.1 Work as a team

It is essential to include skills and experience from across the organization at each stage of the
procurement process.

Why it's important

Working as a team with people from across their organization will help public officials and
stakeholders:

• make better choices at each stage of the procurement;

• strengthen their understanding of their requirements and the market;

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