ART - Working Harder to Spend Less 2009

The document provides an overview of the changes made by government procurement departments over the years, specifically targeting city managers. It highlights the ongoing efforts made by these departments to adapt to economic downturns and manage their resources effectively. The document includes examples from various cities and organizations, such as Tucson, the Port of Portland, Mississippi State University, and Fort Lauderdale, to illustrate the challenges faced by procurement departments during economic downturns. It emphasizes the strategies employed by these departments, such as budget cuts, staff layoffs, and cost-cutting measures, to navigate through difficult economic times. The document also emphasizes the importance of streamlining processes, analyzing spending trends, participating in cooperative purchasing, outsourcing services, renegotiating contracts, and increasing oversight as key strategies to manage resources effectively. It acknowledges the challenges faced by procurement staff who are expected to do more work with fewer resources. Overall, the document provides valuable insights into how procurement professionals are adapting to economic downturns and finding ways to spend less while maintaining service levels.