Procurement planning and service delivery in public sector institutions

Abstract

The study focused on procurement planning and service delivery in public sector institutions. The objectives of the study established the effects of procurement methods, approval systems and procurement lead time on service delivery. The study was due to the fact that procurement planning is full of complex and competitive environment which has led to accountability problems that relate to neglect, poor personal loyalty and advanced self-interest. This is reflected in a report by IGG that rated conflict of interest at 2.4% and abuse of office at 17.8% of mismanagement and misappropriation of public funds in Uganda. The study used a case research study design and used both qualitative and quantitative research approaches for data collection from National medical stores. The population of the study was 76 respondents and the sample size was 66 according to Krejcie and Morgan Table. The researcher used both primary and secondary data sources to get qualitative and quantities data. The findings revealed that there is positive moderate and significant effect of procurement methods on service delivery represented by a regression value of R 0.512, a positive moderate and significant effect of approval systems on service delivery represented by a regression of value of R 0.489and a positive moderate and significant effect of procurement lead time on service delivery represented by a regression value of R 0.510. The study concludes that compliance and transparency in procurement is ensured using the stipulated PPDA procurement methods, and also concludes that the organization has well laid down policies and guidelines as regard levels of authority. The study furthermore concludes that stock out and delays are eliminated through setting appropriate lead time. The study suggests that management should ensure that there is compliance and transparency by using the stipulated PPDA procurement methods while procuring goods and services, and that the General Manager should always be part of the decision-making when it comes to large procurements through approval and should delegate approval of lower value items to departmental managers. The research further suggests that stock out and delays should be eliminated through setting appropriate lead time and bidding by suppliers should always be done on time to avoid delayed receipt of medicines and medical supplies.