Contract Management Procurement Performance Nexus

Abstract

Purpose: The study investigates the proposition that improved procurement performance can be achieved when contract management is properly handled. It examines the issue within the context of a public university, where most of the government’s expenditure on education is incurred. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study employed a quantitative approach. Primary data was obtained from key procurement staff at the Dr. Hilla Limann Technical University using a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire. Purposive sampling was used to select a total of 67 data points from participating staff engaged in work contract management. The data collected were analysed using the Relative Importance Index, Spearman's Rank Correlation, and Regression. Findings: The study revealed a significant positive relationship between contract management activities and procurement performance. Allocation of adequate financial resources for project implementation, health and safety measures, competent project monitoring and evaluation teams, an effective risk management plan, appropriately approved contract modifications, effective dispute management, and proper record-keeping are key interventions required to improve procurement performance. Research Limitation: The study was a case study and was limited to contracts at Dr Hilla Liman Technical University, thereby enabling a thorough analysis of contract management. Practical Implication: The study suggests that procurement officers must not only ensure adherence to due procurement processes to achieve value for money, transparency, accountability, and environmental and social sustainability, but also take a keen interest in contract management. Social Implication: Efficient procurement practices positively affect resource utilisation in the education sector, ensuring that funds are used effectively for their intended purposes. Additionally, contract management practices ensure transparency and trust, thereby enhancing public confidence. Originality/ Value: The study's novelty lies in its contextual focus on Dr. Hilla Limann Technical University, a case study of a Public University in Ghana. The study focused on works contract management and procurement performance, the relationship between the two, practical recommendations, and contributions to the academic and procurement practice literature.