Indeed, best value demands that services should not be delivered directly by authorities if other more effective and efficient means are available. Where supply markets are weak or poorly developed authorities should consider the conditions in which new suppliers might take root or existing suppliers become more competitive and what they can do to create them. Good quality services depend on appropriately skilled and motivated workforces. This will depend on the nature of the service to be provided and the requirements of the service users. All decisions should be based on objective measures that are justifiable in terms of the performance of the service specified under the contract.
Effective communication is key to both successful improvement and change.
Best value authorities should ensure that their staff and recognised trade unions or staff representatives are appropriately informed and consulted about the progress of best value reviews and the implementation of their conclusions. Regular communication, even where there is little news to report, can help to build trust and discourage rumours. EU procurement rules 16. The European Procurement Directives, which are implemented in the UK by various Public Procurement Regulations, require contracts to be awarded on the basis of nondiscrimination, transparency and competitive procurement principles. In particular contracting authorities should be mindful that Part II of the Local Government Act 1988 as modified applies to all best value contracts.