The range of options for the delivery of both projects and services continues to broaden as clients seek the most appropriate allocation of risks in order to realise their objectives for best value and more efficient service provision. Furthermore, the Gershon review and the Government’s emphasis on a ‘mixed economy’ for the delivery of public services demands that the public and private sectors develop innovative partnership arrangements for service delivery.

The selection of the appropriate model for the procurement and delivery of projects and services is therefore becoming increasingly important. Procurement options can be broadly classified by the way in which the risks for design, construction, ongoing service delivery and payment are allocated. However, the design of successful procurement strategies requires the rigorous identification and consideration of all relevant factors and constraints.

Buro Happold’s extensive experience as a service provider to public and private sector clients puts us in a unique position to offer expert advice on all aspects of strategic procurement. Our management consultancy arm, Happold Consulting, works in partnership with clients to develop procurement strategies which fully meet their business objectives. Our advice encompasses the whole procurement process from identification of need through to contract preparation and implementation.

Procurement is an increasingly important element in infrastructure and building projects due to a number of factors, including the need for cost certainty and tougher sustainability targets. As a multi-disciplinary consultancy, we are highly experienced in the management of development schemes worldwide. Our practical experience of working with contractors and obtaining tenders enables us to provide a complete supply chain package for our clients, covering service provision, materials and utilities.