GPSJ WINTER 2023 2024 LATEST - Flipbook - Page 26
GPSJ
LOCAL AUTHORITY & COUNCIL
How Swindon Council Improved
Procurement Efficiency and Cost Savings
with Matrix Workforce Management
Solutions
In July 2018, Swindon Council embarked on a transformative journey in partnership with Matrix
Workforce Management Solutions to address long-standing procurement challenges. Through
a strategic collaboration, this case study delves into the successful transition from a master vendor
solution to a neutral vendor model. The study highlights the problems faced by Swindon Council,
the innovative solution devised by Matrix, and the remarkable outcomes achieved.
The Problem:
For over 16 years, Swindon Council
grappled with a Master Vendor solution that led to a concerning
predicament. Over 50% of services were being procured off-contract,
leading to inflated costs, lack of standardised processes, and compromised
quality control. The absence of an effective tracking mechanism hindered
proper management of services and posed potential quality risks.
The Solution: Recognising the need for a comprehensive
solution, Matrix proposed a tailored Neutral Vendor managed service model.
Collaborating closely with Swindon Council, Matrix ensured that the solution
aligned seamlessly with their objectives. The implementation, conducted
within an eight-week timeframe, was marked by the successful onboarding
of all off-contract expenditures. This swift action yielded immediate and
substantial cost savings. Through the standardisation of processes, a clearer
view of spending patterns emerged, enabling better decision-making and
allocation of resources. Furthermore, adherence to compliance protocols
significantly reduced the risks associated with off-contract expenditures.
The Outcome:
The transition from the traditional master
vendor model to the innovative neutral vendor approach proved to be a
resounding success for Swindon Council. By effectively addressing the
challenge of off-contract spending, the council experienced noteworthy cost
savings, streamlined processes, and elevated service quality. This shift not
only positively impacted the financial bottom line but also bolstered service
delivery and vendor management.
Conclusion:
The collaboration between Swindon Council
and Matrix Workforce Management Solutions stands as a testament to
the potential for innovation and efficiency in the public sector. Through a
well-designed transition from a Master Vendor to a Neutral Vendor model,
the council achieved substantial savings, enhanced service quality, and
improved vendor management. This case study serves as an inspiring
example of how strategic partnerships can drive positive change and deliver
tangible results in complex procurement environments.
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GOVERNMENT AND PUBLIC SECTOR JOURNAL WINTER 2023/2024
Key Results:
Matrix’s partnership with Swindon Council
yielded impressive results:
• Over £4.5 million in cost savings
• Creation of more than 4,000 placements
• An average of 10 candidates per order
• An exceptional fulfilment rate of 99%
• An impressive 220% expansion of the
supply chain