European Journal of Public Procurement Markets (Jul 2021)

Challenges in public procurement before, during, and after the COVID19 crisis: Selected theses on a competency-based approach

  • Michael Eßig,
  • Christian von Deimling,
  • Andreas H. Glas

DOI
https://doi.org/10.54611/PGEK9560
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 1, no. 3
pp. 65 – 80

Abstract

Read online

This paper develops three theses on a competency-based approach during and after the COVID-19 crisis. These theses are based on the following empirical findings: case insights into the procurement of protective gear in Germany, the supplier shortage, which was a problem even before the crisis, and a quantitative view on the extended supply chain challenges in public procurement, including the decreasing number of bidders and an overly narrow view on supply chain partners. A key finding is that while the COVID-19 crisis has uncovered the problems of public procurement, the root causes lie more deeply in public procurement capabilities. As a result, this paper promotes extended public buyer competencies based on a European Framework, evidence-based decision-making in public procurement and the use of digital technologies to improve the security of supplies.