Assessing Public Works Procurement in the Czech Republic´s over-limit Regime: Survey Results and Recommendations for Contracting Authorities

Abstract

This article elucidates the findings of a research study on public works procurement within the over-limit regime in the Czech Republic. A comprehensive survey, conducted in May 2023, provides a panoramic view of the current procurement landscape, encompassing aspects such as procurement methods, financing sources, cost considerations, and time allocation. The study uncovers significant trends and patterns in the procurement process, offering an in-depth understanding of prevalent practices and challenges in the field. It further explores the complexities of procurement method selection, tender document preparation, bidder communication, and appeal handling. The survey results highlight that the Best Value Approach (BVA) can enhance the quality, efficiency, and transparency of the procurement process and assist organizations in selecting contractors that provide the best overall value for their projects. However, some respondents expressed concerns about the potential complexity and time-consuming nature of implementing BVA. Despite these concerns, the benefits of BVA appear to outweigh the challenges for organizations willing to invest the necessary time and effort. Drawing on these findings, the article presents practical recommendations for public purchasers, aiming to boost the efficiency and effectiveness of the procurement process and contribute to the overall enhancement of public works procurement in the Czech Republic. The insights and recommendations offered in this study are anticipated to serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers in the field of public procurement, particularly in relation to the application of the Best Value Approach.This article elucidates the findings of a research study on public works procurement within the over-limit regime in the Czech Republic. A comprehensive survey, conducted in May 2023, provides a panoramic view of the current procurement landscape, encompassing aspects such as procurement methods, financing sources, cost considerations, and time allocation. The study uncovers significant trends and patterns in the procurement process, offering an in-depth understanding of prevalent practices and challenges in the field. It further explores the complexities of procurement method selection, tender document preparation, bidder communication, and appeal handling. The survey results highlight that the Best Value Approach (BVA) can enhance the quality, efficiency, and transparency of the procurement process and assist organizations in selecting contractors that provide the best overall value for their projects. However, some respondents expressed concerns about the potential complexity and time-consuming nature of implementing BVA. Despite these concerns, the benefits of BVA appear to outweigh the challenges for organizations willing to invest the necessary time and effort. Drawing on these findings, the article presents practical recommendations for public purchasers, aiming to boost the efficiency and effectiveness of the procurement process and contribute to the overall enhancement of public works procurement in the Czech Republic. The insights and recommendations offered in this study are anticipated to serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers in the field of public procurement, particularly in relation to the application of the Best Value Approach.