Efficiency Exchange
Universities Scotland: Working smarter – progress report 2013
This report from Universities Scotland reviews progress against the action plan developed by the Universities Scotland Efficiencies Taskforce in 2012. It reflects on the success of the sector across four themes: procurement, shared services and business process improvement, estates management, and ICT.
Realising the benefits from project delivery – part 2
Universities can improve the way that benefits realization is properly embedded at the planning stage of projects. So said Paul Wilson of Provelio in his recent post. Building on a study commissioned by Hefce, Paul now offers four key topics for consideration: evidence based decisions, critical challenge, zero investment thinking, and leadership not management.
Realising the benefits from project delivery – part 1
While higher education institutions have a good track record of delivering large and often complex projects, a study shows that there is room for improving the way that benefits realization is properly embedded at the planning stage. The Efficiency Exchange asks author Paul Wilson of Provelio about this work and to outline their strategy for optimizing benefit realization.
VAT exemption for cost sharing groups: new guidance from Hefce
HEFCE has published guidance on VAT exemption for cost sharing groups delivering shared services. It includes illustrative examples of cost sharing groups and alternative delivery structures.
HEPA procurement training now available
The Higher Education Procurement Academy (HEPA)’s programme of face-to-face training is now available to book on the HEPA website.
VAT cost sharing exemption – a spur to shared services
The Government’s VAT cost-sharing exemption presents a major opportunity for the higher education sector to explore the benefits of sharing services, says Steve Butcher, Head of Procurement and Shared Services at Hefce.
Value and Impact Toolkit
This project aims to develop a holistic approach to understanding and evaluating the value and impact of services that support students. Outputs can be used to assess the value and impact of the student services that universities offer.
HEPA – building procurement capability in higher education
Why procurement professionalism is essential for institutional sustainability. About the Higher Education Procurement Academy and Procurement Maturity Assessments.
Introducing the Higher Education Procurement Academy
The Higher Education Procurement Academy aims to be a centre of excellence for advanced procurement capability and professional development, built by the sector, for the sector.
Let’s talk about efficiency – July 2013
A roundup of news and comment on efficiency in higher education.
