Public procurement principles set the framework for managing public procurement requirements and also within which procurement practitioners must work.
So as practitioners it is important to not only know and understand these principles but to internalize them so that they serve as guiding principles in our decision making process. By integrating these principles into our work ethics the outcome will always be in line with public procurement principles and working in line with public procurement principles is especially important. Public procurement practitioners are public servants because they handle public funds. As such they are bound by an ethical code of conduct and accountable for what thy do or fail to do when managing those funds.
The following are the seven fundamental public procurement principles:
1. Transparency
2. Integrity
3. Economy
4. Openness
5. Fairness
6. Competition
7. Accountability.
These principles are the foundation of public procurement and should be addressed in the public procurement rules. They govern the management of public procurement and also set the framework for a code of conduct of public procurement practitioners and all other officials directly or indirectly associated with the public procurement process. As a practitioner you must have a clear understanding of these principles and know how to apply them to guide your day to day decision making process. By integrating these principles into your work ethics the outcome of your decisions will be in line with the goal of public procurement. As a public procurement practitioner you are a public servant. You manage public funds, are bound by an ethical code of conduct and are accountable for what you do or fail to do when managing those funds.
