Finding a Qualified Consultant : A Case Study of Purchasing Practices in the Swedish Public Sector

Sammanfattning: In the last decades, there has been an expansion in public sector purchasing from external, private actors. The public sector is currently buying goods and services for considerable amounts – and consultancy services are no exception. Consulting services are nevertheless often perceived as risky, and difficult to evaluate. The purchasing process has therefore traditionally been conducted through relationships, trust, and personal references. However, in the public sector, this approach is restricted. Public procurers need to follow strict rules and standardized guidelines within the Public Procurement Act. In this study, we have mapped out how purchasers in the Swedish public sector manage the regulation, while still striving to make sure a qualified consultant is hired for the project. Empirical data was collected from six Swedish contracting authorities. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with individuals involved at different stages of the purchasing process, providing a variety of views. The analysis of the material identified several procedures utilized by the individuals to facilitate the process. Findings indicate that preparation and precision is the key to succeed. This study has contributed to the understanding of how consultants are purchased in a public sector context.