The role of value management in achieving best value in public sector service delivery in South Africa: a research agenda

Abstract

It is common cause that, for the most part, public sector service delivery in South Africa is in a state of disarray. Problems associated with service delivery include shortages of skilled staff, under-spending of budgets, corruption, and a general lack of capacity. Best value in public service delivery is clearly not being achieved. Best Value is an emerging initiative that aims to improve the quality of public services. The basic premise of the Best Value initiative is that the public service should procure services on the basis of value for money rather than on lowest cost. The literature suggests the use of value management with risk management within a project management framework to achieve value for money. This article outlines a research agenda for examining the role of value management in achieving best value in public sector service delivery in South Africa.