Challenges in public procurement before, during, and after the COVID-19 crisis: Selected theses on a competency-based approach

Abstract

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.