This book is an essential guide for understanding the basics of public procurement and contract administration. Aimed at entry-level and intermediate professionals, this book provides a clear and concise introduction to the principles, categories, and methods of public procurement.

1. Public Procurement Cycle: The book explains how public procurement processes are planned, executed, and monitored. It covers the entire cycle from needs assessment and planning to contract closeout, ensuring compliance with the applicable rules and regulations throughout.

2. Principles of Public Procurement: The author highlights the seven core principles that should guide all public procurement processes: transparency, integrity, economy, competition, fairness, openness, and accountability. These principles ensure that procurement is conducted fairly, efficiently, and responsibly.

3. Procurement Planning: Planning is a critical step in the procurement process. The book details how to identify needs, select appropriate procurement methods, and develop a schedule that allows for timely and budget-compliant execution of public contracts.

4. Procurement Methods: The book explores various competitive and non-competitive procurement methods, including open tendering, restricted tendering, and direct procurement. Each method is designed for specific situations based on complexity, urgency, and market availability.

5. Receiving and Evaluating Offers: It discusses how to solicit, receive, and evaluate offers from suppliers. Important topics such as bid security, bid opening processes, and ensuring fair evaluations are covered to help ensure compliance with procurement rules.

6. Contract Administration: Once a contract is awarded, contract administration begins. This section emphasizes the importance of managing contractor performance, monitoring deadlines, processing payments, and resolving issues that may arise during contract execution.

7. Monitoring and Compliance: Monitoring the contract's performance is essential to ensure that the supplier meets the agreed-upon terms. The book provides detailed procedures for inspecting goods, works, and services, ensuring quality and compliance throughout the contract period.

Overall, this book serves as an indispensable reference for those looking to enhance their understanding of public procurement and contract administration. With practical insights and clear explanations, it is ideal for students, professionals, and anyone interested in the field of public procurement.