Contract inspecting of outsourced service: challenges for public universities

Abstract Contract inspecting in public management, though essential for the functioning operation of projects and programs, have not been given the same care and support other bidding procedures have. The contract inspectors are not an organically-structured group, and this hinders the utilization of conventional training. The role of contract inspectors in public universities requires heterogeneous skills and knowledge, including thorough knowledge of legislation and operational practices of maintaining efficient management policies that satisfy the public interest. This paper investigates the challenges faced by these professionals and analyzes the learning mechanisms associated to the inspecting activity. The methodological tool is based on the case study strategy, making use of structured interviews and document analysis. The results point to the existence of weaknesses in the inspection process, confirming the need to hone and develop the skills of public agents assigned to the monitoring of outsourced service contracts in the university in question.