This policy briefing looks at how Government can improve public services by encouraging innovation in procurement.

Key findings:

• Innovation has a role to play in efficient procurement – and efficient procurement has a role to play in stimulating innovation.
• The Government has taken steps to improve procurement, but many problems remain.
• The Office of Government Commerce (OGC) should be given greater powers to direct procurement practices.
• Other recommendations include ensuring procurers learn to intelligently manage risk, and measures to open up procurement to small firms and support pre-commercial development. 

Innovation in procurement is crucial if the government is to meet its objectives of reducing costs and improving public services. We believe this can be achieved while also supporting UK businesses to be more innovative, thereby boosting the UK economy.

Author:
Nesta