service level agreements

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "service level agreements"

Transcription

1 service level agreements NSW Pre m i e r s Depart m e n t Corporate Services Reform Te a m

2 Service Level Agreements Guidelines for Public Sector Organisations NSW Premier s Department Corporate Services Reform Team 1999 Level 23 Governor Macquarie Tower Farrer Place SYDNEY NSW 2000 Telephone: Facsimile: corpreform@mail.ccsu.nsw.gov.au Website: Cataloguing-in-Publication entry New South Wales. Corporate Services Reform Team. Service level agreements. Guidelines for public sector agencies. ISBN Civil Service - New South Wales - Standards 2. Civil Service - New South Wales - Customer Services 3. Service level agreements - New South Wales These guidelines were developed by Robyn Allen with the assistance of Stockdale and Associates. Edited by Neil James Design by City Design & Production Pty Ltd

3 FO R E WO R D Service Level Agreements are an important vehicle for improving corporate services delivery throughout the public sector. The benefit of improving corporate services infrastructure across the sector is that it will provide better delivery of government services to the NSW community. These guidelines will assist public sector organisations with the development of individual service level agreements. They have been written at the request of a number of agencies seeking practical advice in this area. The document outlines the processes involved in reaching a service level agreement, as well as the content which forms the basis of an agreement. The guidelines are equally applicable within an agency and between agencies. Effective service level agreements will result in improved performance by service providers as well as increased discipline on service users. Copies of this document are available from the Inte rn et h t t p : / / w w w. p re m i e rs. n s w. g ov. a u / a b o u t / c s rguide.html or th rough th e N SW Gove rnment Info rmation Service. Fe e d b a ck is welcome and should be dire c ted to the Corp o ra te Services Re fo rm Team via corpreform@mail.ccsu.nsw.gov.au. I encourage all agencies to utilise these guidelines in developing service level agreements as an integral part of their corporate services management. C. Gellatly Director General 1

4 TABLE OF CO N T E N TS C HAPTER 1: INTRO D U C T I O N 1 C o rp o ra te services re fo rm 2 What is a service level agre e m e n t? 3 B e n e fits of a service level agre e m e n t 4 Using these guidelines C HAPTER 2: G E T T I NG TO AG R E E M E N T 1 Sta rt up 2 I nvolving key playe rs 3 Identifying needs and ex p e c ta t i o n s 4 D e fining service leve l s 5 E stablishing perfo rmance indicato rs 6 C o n fi rming mutual issues 7 D ete rmining costs and te rms of pay m e n t 8 Agreeing to the document fra m ewo rk, content and st yl e 9 E stablishing a rev i ew pro c e s s 10 C reating and signing the service level agre e m e n t G etting to agreement - Check l i st CHAPTER 3: KEY AREAS OF CO N T E N T 1 Pa rties to and period of the agreement 2 Agreement objective s 3 D e s c ri ption of serv i c e s 4 Communications, re p o rting and rev i ew 5 Mutual obliga t i o n s 6 Billing and pay m e n t 7 Va ri a t i o n s 8 E xc l u s i o n s 9 D i s p u te re s o l u t i o n 10 Te rmination conditions 11 S e rvice sch e d u l e 12 G l o s s a ry C HAPTER 4: E VA LUAT I NG PERFO R M A NC E 1 Ach i evement of objectives 2 E valuating the ach i evement of service leve l s 3 Regular communication A P P E N D I C E S : A B C D St ru c t u re of a ge n e ric service level agreement S a mple service level agreement - XYZ Accounts Paya b l e Re s o u rc e s G l o s s a ry 2

5 CHAPTER 1: INTRO D U C T I O N 1. Corp o ra te Services Re fo rm C o rp o ra te services re fo rm is a key platfo rm for building long-te rm improvement in the NSW public sector. Effective reform will boost the performance of public agencies and reduce the costs they incur in delivering services. Corporate services is a generic term which describes a variety of support functions used in the public sector, such as: Human resources management Legal services Fleet management Information technology Purchasing and procurement Property management Financial management There are two strategic elements in achieving corporate services reform: Consolidating, simplifying and standardising corporate services processes. Developing shared service arrangements, particularly in handling routine transactions. Service level agreements are one of the main tools available to corporate services managers in improving their service relationships and establishing shared arrangements. Such ag reements are already in use in some NSW public sector agencies. 2. What is a service level agre e m e n t? A service level agreement is both a process and a document. The service level agreement process involves the customer and service provider agreeing on suitable targets for particular services. This process is also treated as a commercial transaction, and the services are paid for by the customer. The achievement of these targets is measured and any discrepancies are discussed and resolved openly. 3

6 CHAPTER 1: INTRO D U C T I O N The advantage of this process is that: It gives the service provider an opportunity to improve performance. It gives the customer an opportunity to review priorities. A service level agreement document is like a contract. It formalises an agreement between two parties by setting out a minimum level of service. The key difference from a commercial contract is that a service level agreement is usually between parties within one government organisation or entity (such as the NSW Government). 3. Benefits of a service level agre e m e n t The main reason organisations enter into service level agreements is to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of service delivery. There are benefits for both customers and service providers. Benefits of a service level agreement: Sets clear perf o r mance e x p e c t ations of the customer and service pro v i d e r. Clar i f ies the roles and responsibilities of both par t i e s. Focuses attention on customer s pr i o r ity needs. Encour a g es a service quality culture, and continuous im p r ov e m e n t. Provides a mechanism for both parties to plan for the futur e. Puts purchasing power into the hands of the cust o m e r. Provides a useful tool for the customer to monitor perf o rm a n c e. Service pro v i d e r s are in a be t t er position to plan their deliv e r y functions. Can provide gr e a t er certainty of income for service pro v i d e r s. 4. Using these guidelines These guidelines are designed for managers of corporate services throughout the public sector, as well as for anyone participating in activities which are affected by a service level agreement. They explain in simple terms the benefits of developing a service level agreement as well as the processes required. 4 s e r v i c e l e ve l a g r e e m e n t s

7 CHAPTER 1: INTRO D U C T I O N The guidelines are divided into the following chapters: Chap ter 1 Provides a general outline of the purpose of service level agreements within the NSW public sector. Chap ter 2 Outlines the stages necessary to develop a service level agreement. Chap ter 3 Details what a service level ag reement contains and what the document looks like. Chap ter 4 Explains how the success of a service level agreement can be measured, and how it can be improved. Appendix A Provides a blank template which can be adapted for a broad range of service level agreements. Appendix B Provides a hypothetical service level agreement in order to illustrate the general terms and concepts in the guidelines. Appendix C Lists some useful publications and resources which are relevant to service level agreements. Appendix D Provides clear definitions of the key terms used throughout this document. Each chapter can be read in conjunction with the illustrations in the appendices. These guidelines will also be an essential reference at each stage of the development of individual service level agreements. s e r v i c e l e ve l a g r e e m e n t s 5

8 CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO AG R E E M E N T The process of reaching an agreement is as important as the agreement itself. The best service level agreements result from close cooperation between the two parties. Working in partnership will help each party understand the extent to which it is dependent on the other. The first round of service level agreements sometimes depends on detailed input from the service provider. The provider is often more aware of different service options and constraints than users. Up to this point, service users may not have seen themselves as customers. Service requirements, however, should always be specified by the customer. Customers determine their needs based on their particular business drivers. As c u sto m e rs use the service level agreement, th ey are like ly to be more demanding and drive the process. 1. Sta rt up The first step in a service level agreement is to decide who will represent the provider and customer units in the negotiation process. Choosing a small team (2-4 people), with equal numbers from each unit or agency, is the best way to keep things moving. Invite participation from others when needed. Start up is the time to agree on the main goals of the service level agreement and to define the process you will adopt. There will be a temptation to start writing the agreement from the outset. However, considerable effort will be saved over the long term by taking time now to define the business and the relationship in detail. Be sure to draw out and discuss the underlying concerns of both service provider and service user. 6

9 CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO AG R E E M E N T Typical service user concerns Loss of contr o l Loss of r o l e Not getting what we want We don t know how to specify what we want Provider doesn t understand our b u s i n e s s Provider will be inf l ex i b l e Provider will cost too much We ll spend too much time managing the agr e e m e n t Typical service provider concerns Risk of f a i l u r e User unclear about needs User wants something we can t p r ov i d e Our pr i o r ities won t be t h e r e User will impose unr User will be inf l ex i b l e User will expect more than t e a l i s tic deadlines User wants to tell us how to do it h e y pay for We ll spend too much time managing the agr e e m e n t The timeframe for the service level agreement is a key component. The customer should consider the likely costs and benefits of different periods before deciding on the timeframe which best suits the business. Service providers will take the timeframe of the agreement into account when setting prices. A greement timeframe considera t i o n s S h o rt Te rm: 1 ye a r No incentive for p r ovider to inv e s t Lik e l y to be the most ex p e n s i v e op t i o n Limited opportunity to a ch i e ve further e f f i c i e n c i e s Able to c h a n g e p r ov i d e r s q u i ck l y Medium Te rm: 2-3 ye a rs Provider more lik i n ve s t to benef it c u s t o m e r Lower pr i c e s e l y to High potential for f u r ther efficiencies to be ac h i e ve d Customer locked into a g reement for long e r Long Te rm: 4+ ye a rs Inv e s tment by pro v i d e r e s s e n t i a l Price incentives are p o s s i b l e Eff iciency gains may h a ve plat e a u e d Customer may miss out on be t t er options by being locked in s e r v i c e l e ve l a g r e e m e n t s 7

10 CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO AG R E E M E N T 2. Invo lving key playe rs A network of service relationships surrounds a service level agreement. Getting the agreement to work well depends on identifying these relationships and consulting those most affected by the service. Key players may include the service provider, suppliers, customers and a range of other stakeholders who have an interest in the outcomes of the service. Examples include the Minister, other agencies, and the public. Customers may be internal or external users who receive the service, direct or indirect. Direct customers obtain the service with no intermediary, while indirect customers (or end-users ) are at the end of a service delivery chain. Often end-users are the most affected by changes, yet they are the last to be consulted. Ignoring them during the development of a service level agreement can cause problems at implementation. Tips for identifying key players Be sure to identify all the sta ke h o l d e rs Art i c u l a te the needs and ex p e c tations of key gro u p s Where th e re are competing ex p e c tations, make this known to all part i e s Re d e f ine pri o rities and agree on re a l i stic outcomes This is a good time to check your agency s delegations to identify who will be the appropriate signatories. Where the agreement is between units within an agency, the signatories are generally the managers of the service provider unit and the service user unit. As a rule, the signatures of chief executives would be required only for a service shared between agencies. 3. Identifying needs and ex p e c ta t i o n s Un d e rstanding and managing the needs of the diffe rent customer and stakeholder groups can be difficult in a public sector environment. Front line staff may value ease of access to a system. Managers are more likely to be concerned with the quality of information. External stakeholders may require costs to be transparent. Re s e a rch customer and sta keholder attitudes to find out which serv i c e attributes are most valued by each group. A service attribute is the aspect of service quality that is relevant to the customer or stakeholder. 8

11 CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO AG R E E M E N T For example, from the staff s perspective, the most important service attributes of a payroll service would be accurate pay delivered on time. The most important service attribute for managers might be that salaries are posted to the correct account. It is important for customers to take the time to distinguish their essential needs from their broader expectations. Minimum needs should be quantified to enable service levels to be specified accurately. Customers need to be clear about their priorities. E xa mples of service attri b u tes and customer ex p e c tations Attribute Av a i l a b i l i t y Re s p o n s i ve n e s s Ti m e l i n e s s Re l i a b i l i t y E qu i t y Expectation S u i t able hours P ro m pt att e n t i o n Speedy pr o c e s s i n g Ac c u r acy in billing C o n s i s tent decisions 4. Defining ser vice leve l s A service level is an agreed measure which might include one of the following elements to describe the performance of a service delivery: quantity quality timeliness cost Service levels are similar to standards, but this term is usually reserved for organisation-wide performance, and as an aid for public scrutiny. 9

12 CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO AG R E E M E N T E xa mples of ser vice leve l s Attribute Expectation Service Level Av a i l a b i l i t y S u i t able hours Open 8:30am - 6:30pm w e e k d ay s Re s p o n s i ve n e s s P ro m pt att e n t i o n Help desk r e p l y within 1 hour T i m e l i n e s s Speedy pr o c e s s i n g Cash banked within 24 hrs Re l i a b i l i t y Ac c u r acy in billing 99.5% accur a c y E qu i t y C o n s i s tent decisions No complaints about unfair tr e a t m e n t Before prescribing service levels the service user needs to describe all the services to be provided and define current performance. You can measure improvements against this baseline. The service provider should outline the capabilities and constraints of their operation. This will help the customer understand the context for their service requests and eliminate any unrealistic expectations. The rule of thumb for the service provider is to under-promise and overdeliver. This is the appropriate time for the customer to define critical areas of service delivery and negotiate the service levels to be provided. In all cases the agreement should indicate the minimum level of per formance. Both customer and service provider need to agree on the needs and expectations which cannot be met. Tips for setting service levels Identify service levels that are measura b l e Avoid setting too many (this leads to loss of pri o ri t y ) Set service levels based on user satisfaction as well as service output Identify key service levels, for critical are a s 5. Establishing perf o r mance indicato rs Having decided on appropriate service levels, the next step is to agree on how these will be measured. Staff will lose confidence in the service level agreement if the measures are not credible. For example, using tick marks on a counting 1 0

13 CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO AG R E E M E N T sheet to record incoming calls is an unreliable method, especially when phones are busy. A more reliable method would be to gather data automatically through the telephone information system. Performance can be difficult to measure, especially where the benefits are intangible. In most cases, a sensible mix of output and outcome measures generates the best result. Measuring customer attitudes towards the service can confirm or challenge other performance data. One-off surveys can also measure whether a specific objective has been met. 6. Confi rming mutual issues An effective service level agreement acknowledges that customers and service providers have responsibilities and obligations to each other. It is important to address these points in the negotiation process, and acknowledge them in the document. In some agreements, customer responsibilities may be extensive. This might include reasonable notice of planned changes to their operation, or an agreement to train staff to use particular software. Ne g otiations should include a mechanism for alte ring the service leve l agreement and a process for resolving disputes. Disputes where the two parties have attempted a resolution and failed are often referred to a third party for mediation or arbitration. Tips for negotiating an agreement without giving in Separa te the people from the pro b l e m Focus on inte re sts, not positions Invent options for mutual ga i n Insist on using objective cri te ri a 7. Dete rmining costs and te rms of pay m e n t S o u rce: Fi s h e r, Ury and Pa t ton Getting to Yes (19 81 ) Some corporate services are required for the benefit of the whole organisation, regardless of whether they are used by individual units. Service providers typically bill these as a block amount. Service providers should use this cost allocation method only for genuine corporate overheads. When service providers are ready to distribute charges they should make a distinction between costs that are allocated as an overhead, and charges based on a customer usage. Usage charges are based on the user s consumption and encourage the customer to make savings. 1 1

14 CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO AG R E E M E N T Where service providers have operated from an aggregate budget, they will not automatically know the costs of individual services. They are unlikely to have information on all of the expenditure that accrues to an activity. Breaking down costs by activity does take time and effort, but it is a worthwhile investment which provides the basis to identify savings. The example of disaggregating costs in Figure 1 is based on breaking down the costs of two activities (accounts payable and debt management) for Shared Services Finance, a hypothetical business unit. To arrive at this breakdown of costs, the business unit would need to have collected detailed information on the quantity of resources consumed by each activity. Activity Based Costing is an accurate method of cost management, which traces rather than allocates costs to a particular output. Costing your services 1. Select serv i c e 2. Identify activities and sub-ta s ks 3. Identify the costs component for each activity 4. Include indirect cost s 5. Identify cost dri ve rs (pers o n - h o u rs, usage ra te s ) 6. C o m p a re service costs with market ra te s Pricing strategies depend on government policy and will vary from agency to agency. Some agencies may require full cost recovery. Others may require that subsidies are made tra n s p a rent. Ne g ot i a to rs should ch e ck on the policy constraints which govern their agency. Where there is flexibility, business units sometimes charge premiums for priority service, or different rates for peak and off-peak periods in order to spread demand. Billing and payment mechanisms are also negotiated at this stage. 1 2

15 CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO AG R E E M E N T FIGURE 1: EXAMPLE - DISAG G R E GAT I NG CO STS S h a red Services Fi n a n c e Accounts Paya b l e Expenditur e $ S h a red Ser vices Fi n a n c e Total Expenditure Expenditur e $ E mp l o yee r e l a t ed e x p e n s e s 3, 423, 256 A d m i n i st ra t i o n 9,163 B o o k s and per i o d i c a l s 2, 456 C o n t ra c to r s 249, 000 EDP e x p e n s e s 30, 013 O f f ice accommodation 706, 8 15 M a i n te n a n c e 9, 520 M o tor v e h i c l e s 165, 000 O ther e x p e n s e s 2, 024 P r inting and st a t i o n e r y 102, 660 St a f f dev e l o p m e n t 84, 545 St o re s 16, 948 Te l e p h o n e s 18, 566 Trav e l 15, 221 I n te r nal c h a r g e s 64, 232 (HR, Fleet, Pr o p e rt y ) Tot al 4, 8 9 9, 4 19 E mp l o yee r e l a t ed e x p e n s e s 1, 456, 98 7 A d m i n i st ra t i o n 4, 100 B o o k s and per i o d i c a l s 1, 228 C o n t ra c to r s 179, 000 EDP e x p e n s e s 3, 085 O f f ice accommodation 231, 811 M a i n te n a n c e 3, 808 M otor v e h i c l e s 66, 000 O t her e x p e n s e s 1, 024 P r inting and st a t i o n e r y 41, 06 4 St a f f dev e l o p m e n t 33, 8 18 St o re s 8, 39 4 Te l e p h o n e s 7, 427 Trav e l 6, 021 I n te r nal c h a r ges 28, 988 (HR, Fleet, Pr o p e rt y ) Tot a l 2, 07 2, S h a red Services Fi n a n c e Debt Manage m e n t Expenditur e $ E mp l o yee r e l a t ed e x p e n s e s 1, 966, 269 A d m i n i st ra t i o n 5, 063 B o o k s and per i o d i c a l s 1, 228 C o n t ra c to r s 70, 000 EDP e x p e n s e s 26, 928 O f f ice accommodation 4 75, 00 4 M a i n te n a n c e 5, 712 M o tor v e h i c l e s 99, 000 O t her e x p e n s e s 1, 000 P r inting and st a t i o n e r y 61, 596 St a f f dev e l o p m e n t 50, 72 7 St o re s 8, 55 4 Te l e p h o n e s 11,1 39 Trav e l 9, 200 I n te r nal c h a r ge s 35, 2 44 (HR, Fleet, Pr o p e rt y ) Tot a l 2, 8 2 6,

16 CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO AG R E E M E N T 8. Agreeing to the document fra m ewo rk, content and st yl e The actual document containing a service level agreement can va ry considerably. Some of the most effective are contained in a few pages, describing the services provided, indicating costs and contact information. Others may specify services and service levels down to the finest detail. The individual document reflects the nature of the relationship between the customer and service provider. A highly specified service level agreement can indicate a lack of trust and understanding between the parties. However, considerable detail may be essential in formulating a complex service. Over-generalised service level agreements can also be frustrating for both customers and service providers. Disputes are common where roles and responsibilities are not clearly defined. All organisations are affected by changes in their environment, and it s important to build flexibility into the agreement. One means of doing this is to separate the broad areas of agreement that are unlikely to change from the details that can be altered subject to discussion. Sometimes this section is called the service schedules. Service Schedules specify Specif ic ser v i c e s Detail - q u a n t i t y - quality - levels of ser v i c e Ra t e or pr i c e 9. Establishing a rev i ew pro c e s s At this stage it is important to define how you will monitor the agreement, and what mechanisms you will use to resolve disputes. Monitoring performance should present few problems if service levels have been well defined. Check that stakeholder feedback is built into this process. Regular meetings are a common means of keeping track. The frequency (monthly or quarterly) will depend on the complexity and detail of the service level agreement. It may also be appropriate to meet more frequently at the beginning, and less frequently when the relationship is well established. A six month ly rev i ew of service re qu i rements and prices, fo l l owed by adjustment of the service schedules as appropriate, will maintain the relevance of the agreement and ensure better service for the customer. 1 4

17 CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO AG R E E M E N T Usually a client representative is appointed to manage the agreement from the customer s perspective. The service provider may appoint a line manager, or an account manager to supervise service delivery and communicate with the customer. 10. Creating and signing the ser vice level agre e m e n t If you have not already done so, check your agency s delegations to identify the signatories to the agreement. If no clear delegation exists, it will be necessary to create one. The effort that both parties have made in drafting the agreement will be repaid by a good working relationship for the future. Mark the occasion, communicate the outcome and celebrate your success so far. 1 5

18 CHAPTER 2: GETTING TO AG R E E M E N T Getting to Agreement - Checklist 1. Sta rt up H ave you clari f ied the goals of the service level agre e m e n t? A re the steps invo l ved in the service level agreement process def i n e d? H ave you decided on the length of the agre e m e n t? 2. I nvo lvin g key playe rs H ave you identified the key playe rs? Who are direct and indirect custo m e rs? Has a good wo rking relationship been established? 3. Identify needs and ex p e c ta t i o n s What are the broad needs of each sta keholder gro u p? Do you have clear definitions of their issues and objective s? H ave you agreed on what services will be prov i d e d? 4. D e fine ser vic e leve l s H ave you discussed the operational capabilities of the service prov i d e r? A re service levels and the sta n d a rds of service clearly def i n e d? H ave you agreed on critical areas of service delive ry? H ave you agreed on pri o rity ta rgets for imp rove m e n t? 5. E s tablish per fo rman ce indicato rs H ave you fo rm u l a ted indicato rs to measure service perfo rm a n c e? 6. C o n fi rm mutual issues A re customer and service provider obligations def ined clearly in wr i t i n g? H ave you fo rm u l a ted indicato rs to give early wa rning of pro b l e m s? H ave you established a wo rkable dispute resolution pro c e s s? A re te rmination conditions provided fo r? 7. D ete rmine costs and te rms of pay m e n t H ave you agreed on a basis for dete rmining cost s? H ave you dete rmined an appro p ri a te cost tra n s fer mechanism? H ave you agreed on the fre quency of billing? 8. A gree on the document fra m ewo rk, content and st yl e Does the document re f lect a part n e rship and service relationship? Is it f l exible enough to accommodate ch a n ge s? 9. E stablish a rev i ew pro c e s s Who will be responsible for rev i ewing perfo rm a n c e? H ave you agreed on the fre quency of rev i ew meet i n g s? H ave you agreed on a pro gram for imp rove m e n t s? H ow will customer and sta keholder fe e d b a ck be sought? 10. C re a te and sign the service level agre e m e n t H ave you communicated the outcome to sta ff? Has someone with appro p ri a te auth o rity signed the document? 1 6

19 CHAPTER 3: KEY AREAS OF CO N T E N T Service agreement documents typically contain the following subject areas. A template of this outline forms part of these guidelines at Appendix A. 1. Pa rties to and period of the agre e m e n t This section is usually found on the first page and includes the units or organisations that are parties to the agreement, the names and signatures of the re p re s e n ta t i ves of those organisations, and the period cove red by th e agreement. 2. Agreement objective s A general statement of the key goals of the service agreement should be defined early in the process. 3. Descri ption of ser v i c e s This section broadly describes the services included in the agreement, with the specific detail relating to each service contained in the service schedules. The advantage of this approach is that agreed changes to service details can be made in the schedules without altering the main body of the document. If your agreement is simple, you may choose to include the service description and service levels in this section of the document and leave out the service schedule. 4. Communications, re p o r ting and rev i ew Most service agreements describe arrangements for general communication between the customer and service provider. If contact information is specific to separate services, it may be more appropriate to list those details in the service schedules. 5. Mutual obliga t i o n s This section is useful for expressing the general obligations of both parties. More detailed obligations can be specified in the service schedules. 1 7

20 CHAPTER 3: KEY AREAS OF CO N T E N T 6. Billing and pay m e n t It is important to include a section on the method of billing and payment, including an agreed frequency. Including the schedule of fees that cover the services to be provided will ensure that the customer is clear about the basis of the bills they will receive. 7. Va ri a t i o n s Include a process for agreeing on variations. Usually this requires both parties acceptance and a specific period of notice. 8. Exc l u s i o n s Sometimes it s as important to describe what is excluded (for example, additional equipment, after-hours support) as to describe what is part of the agreement. 9. Dispute re s o l u t i o n It s impor tant to include a mechanism for resolving disputes. This is a general guideline for making a decision when the two parties cannot agree. In more complex services, a detailed escalation procedure may be necessary. Where there are shared services between agencies, the final decision is usually made at a meeting of the two Chief Executives. 10. Te rmination conditions To avoid protracted negotiations when an agreement is terminated, it is a good idea to include details of how to compensate either party for its initial investment. Any penalty for early withdrawal should be covered here as well. 11. Ser vice sch e d u l e This section describes each service provided to the customer, the agreed service level (or standard), and how achievement of the standards will be measured. Detailed pricing information may be appropriate here. It s quite common for the service schedule to be in table format. Depending on the needs of your agreement, table headings might include some of the following: 1 8 s e r v i c e l e ve l a g r e e m e n t s

21 CHAPTER 3: KEY AREAS OF CO N T E N T Description of service Activities Service levels/targets Performance measure Customer obligations Rate or price Not every service agreement includes a service schedule. For some service agreements, service levels may be adequately described earlier in the document. A service schedule is particularly useful where the services are tailored to each customer s needs and where the service information is very detailed. 12. Glossar y A good service agreement will include a section that provides pre c i s e definitions of key terms. 1 9

22 CHAPTER 4: EVA LUAT I NG PERFO R M A NC E 1. Ach i evement of objective s One of the key benefits of a service level agreement is that it provides clear and documented measures of performance. The first priority is to evaluate whether the objectives of the agreement have been met. This is usually done annually or bi-annually and is important for the next round of negotiations. If the objectives were not achieved, you may need to consider the following questions: We r e the objectives unr e a l i s tic or inappr o p ri a te? Did the customer c h a n g e dir e c t i o n? Was the problem with the service pro v i d e r? Was the process understood by both par t i e s? 2. Evaluating the ac h i evement of ser vice leve l s Regular meetings will provide the opportunity to check that the service levels are being achieved. If the agreement includes key service levels, check that other service levels are not overlooked. Just because key service levels have been achieved does not mean that the other service levels are not important to the customer s business. Take this opportunity to set targets for improvement. These should be both realistic and challenging, with deadlines attached. It is important to involve those doing the work in setting targets and to review progress regularly. 3. Regular communication Build regular feedback into the evaluation process. As well as a formal review meeting, many service level agreements provide contact information for different aspects of the service. 2 0

23 APPENDIX A: GENERIC SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T S e rvice Level Agreement between (The Service Provider) and (The Customer) s e r v i c e l e ve l a g r e e m e n t s 2 1

24 APPENDIX A: GENERIC SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T S E RVICE AGREE M E N T Number This document represents a formal service agreement between (the Service Provider) and for (the Customer) (general description of services) for the period to S i g n a t u re s For the Service Provider (Name, title) For the Customer (Name, title) Date Date 2 2 s e r v i c e l e ve l a g r e e m e n t s

25 APPENDIX A: GENERIC SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T TABLE OF CO N T E N TS Page # 1. G e n e ral Info rm a t i o n Agreement objective s D e s c ri ption of serv i c e s Communications, re p o rting and rev i ew 2. TERMS AND CO N D I T I O N S Mutual obliga t i o n s Billing and payment arra n ge m e n t s D i s p u te resolution process Va ri a t i o n s E xc l u s i o n s Te rm i n a t i o n 3. S E RVICE SC H E D U L E S S e rvices prov i d e d S e rvice levels, measures and customer obliga t i o n s C o n tact deta i l s s e r v i c e l e ve l a g r e e m e n t s 2 3

26 APPENDIX A: GENERIC SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T 1. GENERAL INFO R M AT I O N A greement objective s D e s c ri ption of serv i c e s Communications, re p o r ting and rev i ew 2 4

27 APPENDIX A: GENERIC SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T 2. TERMS AND CO N D I T I O N S Mutual obliga t i o n s Billing and payment arra n ge m e n t s D i s p u te re s o l u t i o n 2 5

28 APPENDIX A: GENERIC SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T Va ri a t i o n s E xc l u s i o n s Te rmination of Ser vice Agr e e m e n t 2 6

29 APPENDIX A: GENERIC SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T 2 7

30 APPENDIX A: GENERIC SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T 2 8

31 APPENDIX B: SAMPLE SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T SA M P L E S e rvice Level Agreement between Shared Services Finance and The XYZ Department 2 9

32 APPENDIX B: SAMPLE SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T S E RVICE AGREE M E N T SA M P L E Nu m b e r: 3XYZ99/00 This document represents a formal service agreement between and for SHARED SERVICES FINANCE THE XYZ DEPARTMENT Accounts payable services for the period 1 July 1999 to 30 June S i g n a t u re s For the Service Provider For the Customer Rosemary Pounder General Manager Shared Services Finance Carlos Velasquez Manager Finance Division XYZ Department Date 15/6/99 Date 15/6/99 3 0

33 APPENDIX B: SAMPLE SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T TABLE OF CO N T E N TS SA M P L E Page # 1. G e n e ral Info rm a t i o n Agreement objective s D e s c ri ption of serv i c e s Communications, re p o rting and rev i ew 2. T ERMS AND CO N D I T I O N S Mutual obliga t i o n s Billing and payment arra n ge m e n t s D i s p u te resolution process Va ri a t i o n s E xc l u s i o n s Te rm i n a t i o n 3. S E RVIC E SCH E D U L E S S e rvices, service levels and customer obliga t i o n s I nvoice processing and payment of suppliers Petty cash disburs e m e n t s Accounts payable management re p o rt C o n tact deta i l s s e r v i c e l e ve l a g r e e m e n t s 3 1

34 APPENDIX B: SAMPLE SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T 1. GENERAL INFO R M AT I O N SA M P L E A greement objective s The purpose of this service level agreement is to establish a clear commitment between the Shared Services Finance and the XYZ Department to work in partnership to provide a reliable and timely accounts payable services. D e s c ri ption of ser v i c e s This service level agreement covers the accounts payable functions for: 1. Invoice processing and the payment of suppliers 2. Petty cash disbursements 3. Accounts payable management reports Hours of operation: 8:30am to 5:00pm weekdays. Communications, re p o r ting and rev i ew Shared Services Finance has appointed an account representative who will be responsible for monitoring the service levels specified in this agreement, and will be the primary contact for the XYZ Department. Please contact Juliette Smith on X222 for any queries about service delivery and performance. Review meetings between the account representative and the Manager, XYZ Finance Division, will be scheduled on a monthly basis to discuss service delivery and any issues of concern. 3 2 s e r v i c e l e ve l a g r e e m e n t s

35 APPENDIX B: SAMPLE SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T 2. TERMS AND CO N D I T I O N S SA M P L E Mutual obliga t i o n s Both parties agree that they share obligations for the services provided and undertake to maintain open channels of communication. The terms and conditions of the Agreement are confidential. S h a red Services Finance Is committed to continuously improving its services. Will review processes and policies and adopt a flexible approach in order to meet customer needs. XYZ Finance Division Will ensure documentation complies with regulatory requirements. The specific obligations of each party are outlined in more detail in the service schedule. Billing and payment arra n ge m e n t s XYZ Finance will be charged $A.bc per payment transaction, for invoice processing and payment of suppliers. The estimated volume of transactions is D,000 per annum. Petty cash disbursements will be charged a flat rate of $C,000 per annum. Shared Services will invoice XYZ Finance Division at the end of each accounting period at the agreed rates until 30 June The rate will be renegotiated for the period 1 July 2000 to 30 June Payment will be made by Treasury transfer. s e r v i c e l e ve l a g r e e m e n t s 3 3

36 APPENDIX B: SAMPLE SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T D i s p u te re s o l u t i o n SA M P L E Any concerns should be raised at the regular review meetings, or by contacting the Shared Services Account Representative. If a complaint or dispute cannot be resolved by negotiation between the parties, advice and assistance may be sought from the General Manager, Shared Services and the Manager, Finance Division, of the XYZ Department. If a resolution cannot be obtained, representation will be made to the Director General, who will be the final arbiter. Va ri a t i o n s Alterations to this agreement may be made only after consultation with, and consent from both the General Manager, Shared Services, and the Manager, Finance Division, XYZ Department. Requests for changes m u st be made in writing and adequ a te time allowed fo r implementation. E xc l u s i o n s This Agreement covers the accounts payable services listed in the s chedule. Approving payments is the responsibility of the XYZ Department. Any additional services must be agreed to by both the General Manager, Shared Services, and the Manager, Finance Division, XYZ Department, and are subject to negotiated additional charges. These additional services will be detailed in an attachment to this agreement. Te rm i n a t i o n This agreement will operate for the specified period unless terminated by the consent of both the General Manager, Shared Services and the Financial Manager, XYZ Department. Upon termination of this agreement all assets used to provide services to the XYZ Department remain the property of Shared Services. 3 4

37 APPENDIX B: SAMPLE SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T SA M P L E 3 5

38 APPENDIX B: SAMPLE SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T SA M P L E 3 6

39 APPENDIX B: SAMPLE SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T SA M P L E s e r v i c e l e ve l a g r e e m e n t s 3 7

40 APPENDIX B: SAMPLE SERVICE LEVEL AG R E E M E N T SA M P L E 3 8

41 APPENDIX C: RESOURCES Re l a ted NSW Gove rnment legislation, policies and guidelines Consulting with Sta ke h o l d e rs, Public Sector Management Office, The Pre m i e r s D e p a rt m e n t D ra ft Code of Practice for NSW Gove rnment Pro c u re m e n t, Sta te Contracts Contro l B o a rd, ( ) D ra ft Policy Sta tement for NSW Gove rnment Pro c u re m e n t, Sta te Contracts Contro l B o a rd, ( ) Guidelines for ach i eving savings in Pro c u rement and Purch a s i n g, Department of Public Wo rks and Services, ( ) Guidelines on the Use of Consulta n t s, Public Sector Emp l oyment Office, ( ) Public Finance and Audit Ac t Public Sector Management Ac t Public Sector Management Act Regulation, (Public Sector Management (Goods and S e rvices) Regulation ) Regulation of Comp et i t i ve Te n d e ring and Contracting in the New South Wales Public S e c to r, Public Bodies Rev i ew Committee, (Re p o rt No ) S e rvice Comp etition Policy Guidelines, Council on the Cost of Gove rnment, (19 97 ) Tre a s u rer s Directions, Public Finance and Audit Ac t S e rvice Level Agreement (SLA) Development Kit, NSW Police Service (19 9 8) O ther useful documents G e n e ral Conditions of Contra c t, Au st ralian Sta n d a rd and Re s o u rce Agre e m e n t s, Au st ralian Gove rnment Publishing Service (19 91 ) I n te rn et site s N SW Gove rnment Home Pa ge: n s w. g ov. a u Council on the Cost of Gove rn m e n t: o c c g. n s w. g ov. a u C e n t re for Au st ralian Public Sector Management, Gri ffi th Un i ve rs i t y h t t p : / / w w w.cad.gu.edu.au/capsm/capsm.htm Ne g otiation re fe re n c e Fi s h e r, Ury & Pa t ton, G etting to yes; negotiating an agreement without giving in, Griffin (19 91 ) 3 9

42 APPENDIX D: GLO S SA RY Activity based costing Benchmark, benchmarking Customers Direct customers Indirect customers Full cost Outcomes Outputs Service level Stakeholders Targets Activity based costing is an elaborate form of full (absorption) costing. A benchmark is a performance standard set by the organisation as a target to emulate. Internal or external receivers or users of the service or product. Can be individuals, groups or organisations. Receive the service with no intermediary. Receive the service through an intermediary. Sometimes called the end-user. This cost includes the direct and indirect, or overhead costs of an activity. Intended impact or effect of a product or service. Products and services produced or delivered to customers. An agreed measure of quantity, quality, timeliness and cost used to describe the performance of service delivery. People, groups and organisations whose interests are affected by the provision of the service. Intended service levels expressed as quantity. 4 0

Vanguard Direct Deposit S e r v i c e. An easy, electronic way to deposit your pay at Va n g u a r d

Vanguard Direct Deposit S e r v i c e. An easy, electronic way to deposit your pay at Va n g u a r d Vanguard Direct Deposit S e r v i c e An easy, electronic way to deposit your pay at Va n g u a r d What Is Vanguard Direct Deposit S e r v i c e? Va n g u a rd Direct Deposit Se rv i c e is an electronic

More information

The USGA Handicap Syste m In Brief A Summary of Handicap Basics

The USGA Handicap Syste m In Brief A Summary of Handicap Basics Golf Association Box 746 NJ 07931-0746 223-0041 usga.org The USGA Handicap Syste m In Brief A Summary of Handicap Basics HOW TO USE YOUR HANDICAP E ve ry golfer wants to enjoy a fair match. The USGA Handicap

More information

S e w i n g m a c h i n e s for but t - seams. - c o m p l e t e b r o c h u r e -

S e w i n g m a c h i n e s for but t - seams. - c o m p l e t e b r o c h u r e - S e w i n g m a c h i n e s for but t - seams - c o m p l e t e b r o c h u r e - D o h l e s e w i n g m a c h i n e s f o r b u t t - s e a m s Head Office D o h l e m a n u f a c t u re b u t t s e

More information

Contracts for diff e rence (CFDs)

Contracts for diff e rence (CFDs) The Australian Journal of Financial Planning Volume 1 Number 2 19 Contracts for diff e rence (CFDs) an intro d u c t i o n By Andrew Leelart h a ep i n ANDREW LEELARTHAEPIN is a CFD and derivatives broker

More information

1.- L a m e j o r o p c ió n e s c l o na r e l d i s co ( s e e x p li c a r á d es p u é s ).

1.- L a m e j o r o p c ió n e s c l o na r e l d i s co ( s e e x p li c a r á d es p u é s ). PROCEDIMIENTO DE RECUPERACION Y COPIAS DE SEGURIDAD DEL CORTAFUEGOS LINUX P ar a p od e r re c u p e ra r nu e s t r o c o rt a f u e go s an t e un d es a s t r e ( r ot u r a d e l di s c o o d e l a

More information

Business Process Management in a Manufacturing Enterprise An Overview

Business Process Management in a Manufacturing Enterprise An Overview Business Process Management in a Manufacturing Enterprise An Overview About the Author Michael McClellan has over 30 years of experience serving and managing manufacturing enterprises. He has held a number

More information

H ig h L e v e l O v e r v iew. S te p h a n M a rt in. S e n io r S y s te m A rc h i te ct

H ig h L e v e l O v e r v iew. S te p h a n M a rt in. S e n io r S y s te m A rc h i te ct H ig h L e v e l O v e r v iew S te p h a n M a rt in S e n io r S y s te m A rc h i te ct OPEN XCHANGE Architecture Overview A ge nda D es ig n G o als A rc h i te ct u re O ve rv i ew S c a l a b ili

More information

C O N T E N T S. I n t ro d u c t i o n

C O N T E N T S. I n t ro d u c t i o n C O N T E N T S I n t ro d u c t i o n i 1. Now That You ve Selected a Public Relations Firm 1 2. Getting Start e d 4 3. F o rmalizing the Relationship 9 Agency Client Agre e m e n t Authorization to Begin

More information

CONTRACT MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK

CONTRACT MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK CONTRACT MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK August 2010 Page 1 of 20 Table of contents 1 Introduction to the CMF... 3 1.1 Purpose and scope of the CMF... 3 1.2 Importance of contract management... 4 1.3 Managing contracts...

More information

Contract and Vendor Management Guide

Contract and Vendor Management Guide Contents 1. Guidelines for managing contracts and vendors... 2 1.1. Purpose and scope... 2 1.2. Introduction... 2 2. Contract and Vendor Management 2.1. Levels of management/segmentation... 3 2.2. Supplier

More information

Today, Ingram Micro Canada markets

Today, Ingram Micro Canada markets INGRAM MICRO CANADA About Ingram Micro Inc. Ingram Micro Inc. (Canada) is the nation s largest distributor of computer hardware and software and is a subsidiary of Californ i a - b a s e d Ingram Micro

More information

Treasury Circular. Payment of Accounts

Treasury Circular. Payment of Accounts Payment of Accounts Treasury Circular NSW TC 11/12 14 July 2011 This Circular specifies the Government s payment of accounts policy, including new requirements, effective from 14 July 2011, for agencies

More information

CONTRACT MANAGEMENT POLICY POLICY ADOPTED BY COUNCIL ON???? AT ITEM C.????

CONTRACT MANAGEMENT POLICY POLICY ADOPTED BY COUNCIL ON???? AT ITEM C.???? CONTRACT MANAGEMENT POLICY POLICY ADOPTED BY COUNCIL ON???? AT ITEM C.???? 1 1. PRE-AMBLE All transactions undertaken by the Cape Winelands District Municipality involves a contract whether explicitly

More information

august09 tpp 09-05 Internal Audit and Risk Management Policy for the NSW Public Sector OFFICE OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT Policy & Guidelines Paper

august09 tpp 09-05 Internal Audit and Risk Management Policy for the NSW Public Sector OFFICE OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT Policy & Guidelines Paper august09 09-05 Internal Audit and Risk Management Policy for the NSW Public Sector OFFICE OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT Policy & Guidelines Paper Preface Corporate governance - which refers broadly to the processes

More information

This booklet sets out Our Terms of Business in conjunction with the Debt Management Agreement that You have signed.

This booklet sets out Our Terms of Business in conjunction with the Debt Management Agreement that You have signed. Terms of Business INTRODUCTION This booklet should be read in conjunction with Your Debt Management Agreement. The information in this booklet may help You understand the service that We will provide

More information

Commercial Energy Management 11 Questions to ask your Energy Broker

Commercial Energy Management 11 Questions to ask your Energy Broker Commercial Energy Management 11 Questions to ask your Energy Broker Benchmark your Broker Introduction Do you use or are you looking to use a Business Energy Broker? It s important to find the right partner

More information

Appendix A8.1: Service Level Agreement Contents

Appendix A8.1: Service Level Agreement Contents Appendix A8.1: Service Level Agreement Contents 11/03/2010 This section provides a practical guide to the preparation and use of Service Level Agreements (SLAs) in the context of shared services. It will

More information

1. Evolution of infrastructure procurement in NSW. 2. Market consultation and outcomes. 3. Response and implementation. 4. Project Deed Evolution

1. Evolution of infrastructure procurement in NSW. 2. Market consultation and outcomes. 3. Response and implementation. 4. Project Deed Evolution Reducing Bid Costs for Outcome-Based Procurements in NSW Infrastructure and Structured Finance Unit: Partnering to Create Partnerships December 2015 1. Evolution of infrastructure procurement in NSW 2.

More information

POSITION DESCRIPTION, PERFORMANCE MEASURES AND TARGETS

POSITION DESCRIPTION, PERFORMANCE MEASURES AND TARGETS POSITION DESCRIPTION, PERFORMANCE MEASURES AND TARGETS Attachment 1 Position Title: Programs & Client Relations Manager Responsible to: Chief Executive Officer Responsibility: Programs Management and Client

More information

First A S E M R e c to rs C o n f e re n c e : A sia E u ro p e H ig h e r E d u c a tio n L e a d e rsh ip D ia l o g u e Fre ie U n iv e rsitä t, B e rl in O c to b e r 2 7-2 9 2 0 0 8 G p A G e e a

More information

EM EA. D is trib u te d D e n ia l O f S e rv ic e

EM EA. D is trib u te d D e n ia l O f S e rv ic e EM EA S e c u rity D e p lo y m e n t F o ru m D e n ia l o f S e rv ic e U p d a te P e te r P ro v a rt C o n s u ltin g S E p p ro v a rt@ c is c o.c o m 1 A g e n d a T h re a t U p d a te IO S Es

More information

Procurement Transformation Division. Procurement guidance. Engaging and managing consultants. Includes definitions for consultants and contractors

Procurement Transformation Division. Procurement guidance. Engaging and managing consultants. Includes definitions for consultants and contractors Procurement guidance Engaging and managing consultants Includes definitions for consultants and contractors Procurement guidance: Engaging and managing consultants Page 2 of 17 Table of contents Table

More information

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING AND PERFORMANCE REVIEW: AN INTEGRATED VISION

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING AND PERFORMANCE REVIEW: AN INTEGRATED VISION PROFESSIONAL LEARNING AND PERFORMANCE REVIEW: AN INTEGRATED VISION OECTA's Response to the February 2000 Consultation Paper of the Ontario College of Teachers March 2000 PROFESSIONAL LEARNING AND PERFORMANCE

More information

ASCENT TM Integrated Shipment Management

ASCENT TM Integrated Shipment Management ASCENT TM Integrated Shipment Management Software Solutions Production mail Shipping systems Copier systems Facsimile systems Mailing systems Management services Financial services Consulting Supplies

More information

M E D I C I N E PAT I E N T T I M E A MANIFESTO FROM THE A B P I. Patient We l f a re Value for Money Fairness in the NHS I nvesting in the Future

M E D I C I N E PAT I E N T T I M E A MANIFESTO FROM THE A B P I. Patient We l f a re Value for Money Fairness in the NHS I nvesting in the Future THE RIGHT M E D I C I N E THE RIGHT PAT I E N T THE RIGHT T I M E Patient We l f a re Value for Money Fairness in the NHS I nvesting in the Future 2006 A MANIFESTO FROM THE A B P I FOREWORD by Nigel Brooksby,

More information

Grievance Management Guidance Note

Grievance Management Guidance Note May 2012 1 Grievance Management Guidance Note 1 EBRD S REQUIREMENTS 1.1 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENT (PR) 10 INFORMATION DISCLOSURE AND STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT Key Bank requirements relating to grievance management

More information

JusticePolicy Brief. Criminal

JusticePolicy Brief. Criminal Criminal JusticePolicy Brief Texas LULAC State Executive Office Proven Pro-family Criminal Justice Policies that Save Families, Save Tax Payers Money and Improve the Safety of our Community August 2004

More information

Procurement Policy. Finance Policy

Procurement Policy. Finance Policy 1 Purpose Victoria University of Wellington (the University ) and its subsidiaries are large scale procurers of goods and services. To ensure continued accountability and robust governance, it is critical

More information

Client Agreement 1.9.14

Client Agreement 1.9.14 Client Agreement This is our standard client agreement upon which we intend to rely. For your own benefit and protection you should read these terms carefully before signing them. If you do not understand

More information

Investment Strategy Workbook

Investment Strategy Workbook Self Managed Super Fund Investment Strategy Workbook Prepared for Securitor Financial Group Ltd ABN 48 009 189 495 (Securitor) Licensed Dealer in Securities Securitor Financial Group Ltd ABN 48 009 189

More information

WORLD DECLARAT I O N ON EDUCATION FOR A L L FRAMEWORK FOR A C T I O N TO MEET BASIC LEARNING NEEDS

WORLD DECLARAT I O N ON EDUCATION FOR A L L FRAMEWORK FOR A C T I O N TO MEET BASIC LEARNING NEEDS O ri gi n a l : E n g l i s h WORLD DECLARAT I O N ON EDUCATION FOR A L L a n d FRAMEWORK FOR A C T I O N TO MEET BASIC LEARNING NEEDS Adopted by the World Conference on Education for A l l Meeting Basic

More information

How To Get A Contract From The Taxman

How To Get A Contract From The Taxman Procuring Professional Services Buying Support www.buyingsupport.co.uk Procuring Professional Services What are they? Why are they needed? The 7 Steps to Best Value 2 What are Professional Services? Management

More information

Children s Bureau Child and Family Services Reviews Program Improvement Plan Instructions and Matrix

Children s Bureau Child and Family Services Reviews Program Improvement Plan Instructions and Matrix Children s Bureau Child and Family Services Reviews Program Improvement Plan Instructions and Matrix October 2007 DRAFT The format of this document was modified in November 2013; however, the content remains

More information

Data Communications Company (DCC) price control guidance: process and procedures

Data Communications Company (DCC) price control guidance: process and procedures Guidance document Contact: Tricia Quinn, Senior Economist Publication date: 27 July 2015 Team: Smarter Metering Email: tricia.quinn@ofgem.gov.uk Overview: The Data and Communications Company (DCC) is required

More information

Procurement guidance Managing and monitoring suppliers performance

Procurement guidance Managing and monitoring suppliers performance Procurement guidance Managing and monitoring suppliers performance Procurement guidance: Managing and monitoring suppliers performance Page 2 of 16 Table of contents Table of contents... 2 Purpose of the

More information

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS and ASSOCIATE CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS TRAINING LOG

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS and ASSOCIATE CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS TRAINING LOG CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS and ASSOCIATE CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS TRAINING LOG 2007 Institute of Chartered Accountants of New Zealand This book is copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purposes of private

More information

THE SALAMANCA STATEMENT AND FRAMEWORK FOR ACTION ON SPECIAL NEEDS EDUCATION

THE SALAMANCA STATEMENT AND FRAMEWORK FOR ACTION ON SPECIAL NEEDS EDUCATION THE SALAMANCA STATEMENT AND FRAMEWORK FOR ACTION ON SPECIAL NEEDS EDUCATION Adopted by the WORLD CONFERENCE ON SPECIAL NEEDS EDUCATION: ACCESS AND QUALITY Salamanca, Spain, 7-10 June 1994 United Nations

More information

TOTAL ASSET MANAGEMENT. Life Cycle Costing Guideline

TOTAL ASSET MANAGEMENT. Life Cycle Costing Guideline TOTAL ASSET MANAGEMENT Life Cycle Costing Guideline September 2004 TAM04-10 Life Cycle Costing Guideline September 2004 TAM04-10 ISBN 0 7313 3325 X (set) ISBN 0 7313 3272 5 1. Asset management New South

More information

Secure Horizons P.O. Box 489 Cypress, CA 90630

Secure Horizons P.O. Box 489 Cypress, CA 90630 Secure Horizons P.O. Box 489 Cypress, CA 90630 Customer Service 1-8 0 0-2 2 8-2 1 4 4 TDHI 1-800-685-9355 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. M o n d ay through Fri d ay Sales Inform a t i o n 1-800-610-2660 or TDHI

More information

Outsourcers Win! Special Features Introducing the Merlins their predictions for 2003

Outsourcers Win! Special Features Introducing the Merlins their predictions for 2003 H u m a n R e s o u r c e s O u t s o u r c i n g T o d a y Human Resources Outsourcing Today Merlins and Legal Eagles DECEMBER 2002/JANUARY 2003 www.hrotoday.com DEC 2002/JAN 2003 www.hrotoday.com Outsourcers

More information

Volunteer Managers National Occupational Standards

Volunteer Managers National Occupational Standards Volunteer Managers National Occupational Standards Contents 00 Forward 00 Section 1 Introduction 00 Who are these standards for? 00 Why should you use them? 00 How can you use them? 00 What s in a Standard?

More information

PSPPROC506A Plan to manage a contract

PSPPROC506A Plan to manage a contract PSPPROC506A Plan to manage a contract Revision Number: 2 PSPPROC506A Plan to manage a contract Modification History PSPPROC506A Release 2: PSPPROC506A Release 1: Unit Descriptor Layout adjusted. No changes

More information

Human Resource Change Management Plan

Human Resource Change Management Plan Structural Reform in Western Australian Local Governments Human Resource Change Management Plan A resource for the progression of your workforce through the structural reform process Contents Human Resource

More information

NSW Data & Information Custodianship Policy. June 2013 v1.0

NSW Data & Information Custodianship Policy. June 2013 v1.0 NSW Data & Information Custodianship Policy June 2013 v1.0 CONTENTS 1. PURPOSE... 4 2. INTRODUCTION... 4 2.1 Information Management Framework... 4 2.2 Data and information custodianship... 4 2.3 Terms...

More information

STITT & C Ọ SOLICITORS 11 Gough Square, London EC4A 3DE Tel: 020 7832 0840 Fax: 020 7832 0865 email: info@stitt.co.uk

STITT & C Ọ SOLICITORS 11 Gough Square, London EC4A 3DE Tel: 020 7832 0840 Fax: 020 7832 0865 email: info@stitt.co.uk STITT & C Ọ SOLICITORS 11 Gough Square, London EC4A 3DE Tel: 020 7832 0840 Fax: 020 7832 0865 email: info@stitt.co.uk TERMS OF ENGAGEMENT 1. Service Commitment We aim to offer our clients quality legal

More information

Purpose of presentation

Purpose of presentation ECONOMIC REGULATION Purpose of presentation To provide the Status Quo on Economic Regulation To indicate the ideal situation WHERE DOES THE MANDATE COME FROM? Constitution Water Services Act Section 10

More information

GREATER LETABA MUNICIPALITY P.O Box 36, Modjadjiskloof, 0835, Tel (015) 309 9246/7/8, Fax (015) 309 9419, Email:greaterletaba@glm.gov.

GREATER LETABA MUNICIPALITY P.O Box 36, Modjadjiskloof, 0835, Tel (015) 309 9246/7/8, Fax (015) 309 9419, Email:greaterletaba@glm.gov. Greater Letaba Municipality invites suitably qualified candidates to apply for the following positions: CORPORATE SERVICES DIRECTORATE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR: INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) Salary:

More information

Supplementary Financial Services Guide

Supplementary Financial Services Guide Supplementary Financial Services Guide Dated 27 July 2015 This Supplementary Financial Services Guide (SFSG) supplements Version. February 2015 of the Crowe Horwath Financial Advice Pty Ltd Financial Services

More information

Explaining reconviction following a community sentence: the role of social factors

Explaining reconviction following a community sentence: the role of social factors Home Office Research Study 192 Explaining reconviction following a community sentence: the role of social factors by Chris May A Research, Development and Statistics Directorate Report London: Home Office

More information

Dodo Power & Gas Complaint Management Policy

Dodo Power & Gas Complaint Management Policy DODO POWER & GAS PTY LTD Dodo Power & Gas Complaint Management Policy Jurisdiction: All 2013 Policy Reference ref DPG 100-004 Version: 1.2 Author: Status Andrew Mair Draft Publication Date 7/06/2013 Location:

More information

Framework for Managing Programme Performance Information

Framework for Managing Programme Performance Information Framework for Managing Programme Performance Information Published by the National Treasury Private Bag X115 Pretoria 0001 South Africa Tel: +27 12 315 5948 Fax: +27 12 315 5126 The Framework for Managing

More information

Contract Management Guideline

Contract Management Guideline www.spb.sa.gov.au Contract Management Guideline Version 3.2 Date Issued January 2014 Review Date January 2014 Principal Contact State Procurement Board Telephone 8226 5001 Contents Overview... 3 Contract

More information

How To Write A Local Authority Budget

How To Write A Local Authority Budget Circular Fin 08/2014 1 July 2014 Guidance associated with Local Property Tax (Local Adjustment Factor) Regulations 2014 I am directed by the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government to

More information

Money Management Team Limited Limited Service & Fee Agreement

Money Management Team Limited Limited Service & Fee Agreement Money Management Team Limited Limited Service & Fee Agreement These Terms of Business set out the agreement between you and us. Please ensure that you read them all carefully. If you do not understand

More information

About injury management and staying at or returning to work

About injury management and staying at or returning to work About injury management and staying at or returning to work Returning to work after an injury is an essential part of rehabilitation and can help you improve the health and wellbeing of staff. It can also

More information

Unit 16 : Software Development Standards O b jec t ive T o p r o v id e a gu ide on ho w t o ac h iev e so f t wa r e p r o cess improvement through the use of software and systems engineering standards.

More information

One Government Contract Management Framework. September 2014

One Government Contract Management Framework. September 2014 One Government Contract Framework September 2014 One Government Contract Framework Table of contents 1 Introduction... 4 2 Purpose... 4 3 Scope... 5 3.1 Contract management planning starts before a contract

More information

GE Capital. Fleet Policy. A step-by-step guide to writing your fleet policy. Key Solutions Thought Leadership

GE Capital. Fleet Policy. A step-by-step guide to writing your fleet policy. Key Solutions Thought Leadership GE Capital Fleet Policy A step-by-step guide to writing your fleet policy Key Solutions Thought Leadership A step by step guide to writing a fleet policy Any organisation that runs a company car or van

More information

Key Solutions Thought Leadership

Key Solutions Thought Leadership GE Capital Fleet Policy A step-by-step guide to writing your fleet policy Key Solutions Thought Leadership GE Capital A step by step guide to writing a fleet policy Any organisation that runs a company

More information

CONTRACT MANAGEMENT POLICY

CONTRACT MANAGEMENT POLICY CONTRACT MANAGEMENT POLICY Section Finance Approval Date 25/08/2014 Approved by Directorate Next Review Aug 2016 Responsibility Chief Operating Officer Key Evaluation Question 6 PURPOSE The purpose of

More information

Management and Collection of Debt Policy. Effective date October 2014 Review date October 2017 Approved by Link Group Board. www.linkhousing.org.

Management and Collection of Debt Policy. Effective date October 2014 Review date October 2017 Approved by Link Group Board. www.linkhousing.org. Management and Collection of Debt Policy Effective date October 2014 Review date October 2017 Approved by Link Group Board 1. INTRODUCTION Link Group and its subsidiary companies provide a range of services

More information

Certification in Humanitarian Supply Chain Management (CHSCM) Competence Model. Final Version 2007

Certification in Humanitarian Supply Chain Management (CHSCM) Competence Model. Final Version 2007 Certification in Humanitarian Supply Chain Management (CHSCM) Competence Model Final Version 2007 Contents Competence Model Context... 3 Functional Map... 6 UNIT 1 Supply Chain Planning... 7 UNIT 2 Supply

More information

Retail and Business Banking Financial Services Guide, Credit Guide and Privacy Statement

Retail and Business Banking Financial Services Guide, Credit Guide and Privacy Statement Retail and Business Banking Financial Services Guide, Credit Guide and Privacy Statement Preparation Date: 31 July 2015 Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL 1 and Australian credit licence

More information

Retail and Business Banking Financial Services Guide, Credit Guide and Privacy Statement

Retail and Business Banking Financial Services Guide, Credit Guide and Privacy Statement Retail and Business Banking Financial Services Guide, Credit Guide and Privacy Statement Preparation Date: 31 July 2015 Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL 1 and Australian credit licence

More information

M P L S /V P N S e c u rity. 2 0 0 1, C is c o S y s te m s, In c. A ll rig h ts re s e rv e d.

M P L S /V P N S e c u rity. 2 0 0 1, C is c o S y s te m s, In c. A ll rig h ts re s e rv e d. M P L S /V P N S e c u rity M ic h a e l B e h rin g e r < m b e h rin g @ c is c o.c o m > M b e h rin g - M P L S S e c u rity 2 0 0 1, C is c o S y s te m s, In c. A ll rig h ts re s e rv e d. 1 W h

More information

i n g S e c u r it y 3 1B# ; u r w e b a p p li c a tio n s f r o m ha c ke r s w ith t his å ] í d : L : g u id e Scanned by CamScanner

i n g S e c u r it y 3 1B# ; u r w e b a p p li c a tio n s f r o m ha c ke r s w ith t his å ] í d : L : g u id e Scanned by CamScanner í d : r ' " B o m m 1 E x p e r i e n c e L : i i n g S e c u r it y. 1-1B# ; u r w e b a p p li c a tio n s f r o m ha c ke r s w ith t his g u id e å ] - ew i c h P e t e r M u la e n PACKT ' TAÞ$Æo

More information

Allianz Professional Indemnity Insurance Management Consultants

Allianz Professional Indemnity Insurance Management Consultants Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty Pacific Allianz Professional Indemnity Insurance Management Consultants Proposal Form General Information The General Information set out below is provided for your

More information

HOME INDEMNITY INSURANCE - WESTERN AUSTRALIA POLICY WORDING

HOME INDEMNITY INSURANCE - WESTERN AUSTRALIA POLICY WORDING POLICY WORDING HOME INDEMNITY INSURANCE - WESTERN AUSTRALIA GLA RBUA HII WA 1115 Effective Date 01 November 2015 Welcome to the financial security provided by RBUA Home Indemnity Insurance - Western Australia

More information

Sector Development Ageing, Disability and Home Care Department of Family and Community Services (02) 8270 2218

Sector Development Ageing, Disability and Home Care Department of Family and Community Services (02) 8270 2218 Copyright in the material is owned by the State of New South Wales. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968 and/or as explicitly permitted below, all other rights are reserved. You

More information

Project Assessment Framework Establish service capability

Project Assessment Framework Establish service capability Project Assessment Framework Establish service capability July 2015 Component of the Project Assessment Framework (PAF) This document forms part of the Project Assessment Framework, as outlined below.

More information

LSB Procurement Framework

LSB Procurement Framework LSB Procurement Framework Introduction Procurement covers the typical purchase of services, supplies and works required to enable project delivery and to manage the infrastructure. The Services Board (LSB)

More information

Direct Earnings Attachment

Direct Earnings Attachment Direct Earnings Attachment A Guide for Employers 1 What this Guide is about This guide explains what you, as an employer, need to do if DWP Debt Management (part of the Department for Work and Pensions

More information

Contract Management Framework

Contract Management Framework Contract Management Framework Contents Purpose and Scope... 2 The Contract... 2 The importance of the Contract... 2 Contract Management... 3 The Toolkits... 4 Outline of establishing a Contract Management

More information

UNSOLICITED PROPOSALS

UNSOLICITED PROPOSALS UNSOLICITED PROPOSALS GUIDE FOR SUBMISSION AND ASSESSMENT January 2012 CONTENTS 1 PREMIER S STATEMENT 3 2 INTRODUCTION 3 3 GUIDING PRINCIPLES 5 3.1 OPTIMISE OUTCOMES 5 3.2 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 5 3.3 PROBITY

More information

COMPLIANCE FRAMEWORK AND REPORTING GUIDELINES

COMPLIANCE FRAMEWORK AND REPORTING GUIDELINES COMPLIANCE FRAMEWORK AND REPORTING GUIDELINES DRAFT FOR CONSULTATION June 2015 38 Cavenagh Street DARWIN NT 0800 Postal Address GPO Box 915 DARWIN NT 0801 Email: utilities.commission@nt.gov.au Website:

More information

Complaint Management and Dispute Resolution Policy- Red Energy

Complaint Management and Dispute Resolution Policy- Red Energy Complaint Management and Dispute Resolution Policy- Red Energy 1. Overview Red Energy is committed to providing a clear, effective and open Complaint Management Process for its customers and staff. Ideally,

More information

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT COMPLIANCE POLICY & MANUAL ADOPTED

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT COMPLIANCE POLICY & MANUAL ADOPTED F021 BUSINESS MANAGEMENT COMPLIANCE POLICY & MANUAL ADOPT... http://ln.burdekin.qld.gov.au/cis/policies.nsf/95f9bd5961a3b1aa4a2565a900141... Page 1 of 1 30/04/2013 Policy Register Category: Policy Number:

More information

FINANCIAL SERVICES TRAINING PACKAGE FNB99

FINANCIAL SERVICES TRAINING PACKAGE FNB99 FINANCIAL SERVICES TRAINING PACKAGE FNB99 This is Volume 12 of a 13-volume set. This volume should not be used in isolation but in the context of the complete set for the Financial Services Training Package.

More information

Debt Recovery Scheme. a helping hand. www.salaw.com

Debt Recovery Scheme. a helping hand. www.salaw.com Debt Recovery Scheme a helping hand www.salaw.com www.salaw.com 2 We understand that chasing debtors can be complicated, frustrating and time-consuming We recognise the importance of credit control and

More information

CLIENT AGREEMENT CLIENT AGREEMENT VERSION 1.5.15

CLIENT AGREEMENT CLIENT AGREEMENT VERSION 1.5.15 CLIENT AGREEMENT VERSION 1.5.15 CLIENT AGREEMENT Chadney Bulgin is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), FCA register number 483323. Contents 1. The Financial Conduct Authority

More information

Disposal Schedule for Functional records of Retirement Benefits Fund. Disposal Authorisation No. 2416

Disposal Schedule for Functional records of Retirement Benefits Fund. Disposal Authorisation No. 2416 Disposal Schedule for Functional records of Retirement Benefits Fund Disposal Authorisation No. 2416 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION Page 4 Archives legislation Page 4 Schedule elements and arrangement

More information

Complaints Standard. for Suppliers. Categorised as Basic (B or F)

Complaints Standard. for Suppliers. Categorised as Basic (B or F) Complaints Standard for Suppliers Categorised as Basic (B or F) (UK version) Contents Introduction 3 Definitions 3 1. Process, Procedures and Controls 5 2. Regulatory Standards 7 3. Employees 7 4. Publicising

More information

purchase to pay at its best providing solutions for hospitality professionals peace of mind

purchase to pay at its best providing solutions for hospitality professionals peace of mind purchase to pay at its best providing solutions for hospitality professionals peace of mind welcome > > > > > > The Procure Wizard e-procurement platform is a web application ideally suited to the hospitality

More information

BEST PRACTICE GUIDE 6: ESTABLISHING CONTRACTS. RDTL MINISTRY OF FINANCE Procurement Service

BEST PRACTICE GUIDE 6: ESTABLISHING CONTRACTS. RDTL MINISTRY OF FINANCE Procurement Service RDTL MINISTRY OF FINANCE Procurement Service BEST PRACTICE GUIDE 6: ESTABLISHING CONTRACTS 1 RDTL Procurement Guidelines The Procurement Legal Regime Decree Law sets out new procurement processes which

More information

Debt Management Plan. Terms of Business

Debt Management Plan. Terms of Business Debt Management Plan Terms of Business Important Note These terms of business (the Terms ) explain the rights and obligations of You and Us regarding the provision of your Debt Management Plan. You should

More information

Financial Services Guide Part 1

Financial Services Guide Part 1 Financial Services Guide Part 1 Version 12, 30 JUNE 2014 This Financial Services Guide ( FSG ) has been authorised for distribution by the authorising licensee: Magnitude Group Pty Ltd ( Magnitude ) ABN

More information

Group Flexible Retirement Plan Key features

Group Flexible Retirement Plan Key features Group Flexible Retirement Plan Key features This is an important document. Please read it and keep it for future reference. Key features document: Pages 1 21 Terms and conditions for joining: Pages 22

More information

Tax risk management strategy

Tax risk management strategy Vodafone Group Plc has a tax strategy focused on the following 6 key areas: Integrity in compliance and reporting Enhancing shareholder value Business partnering Influencing tax policy Developing our people

More information

Self Managed Superannuation Fund investment strategy workbook

Self Managed Superannuation Fund investment strategy workbook Self Managed Superannuation Fund investment strategy workbook Issue Number 2 June 2013 Prepared for Prepared by Contents Page Fund s Details 3 Member Details 6 Current SMSF s Assets and Liabilities 14

More information

UMHLABUYALINGANA MUNICIPALITY SERVICE LEVEL MANAGEMENT POLICY

UMHLABUYALINGANA MUNICIPALITY SERVICE LEVEL MANAGEMENT POLICY UMHLABUYALINGANA MUNICIPALITY SERVICE LEVEL MANAGEMENT POLICY Service Level Management Policy Approval and Version Control Approval Process: Position or Meeting Number: Date: Originator: Recommended by

More information

TRANSPORT FOR LONDON (TfL) LOW EMISSIONS CERTIFICATE (LEC) GUIDANCE NOTES FOR THE COMPANY AUDIT PROCESS. LEC (Company Audit) Guidance Notes

TRANSPORT FOR LONDON (TfL) LOW EMISSIONS CERTIFICATE (LEC) GUIDANCE NOTES FOR THE COMPANY AUDIT PROCESS. LEC (Company Audit) Guidance Notes TRANSPORT FOR LONDON (TfL) LOW EMISSIONS CERTIFICATE (LEC) GUIDANCE NOTES FOR THE COMPANY AUDIT PROCESS LEC (Company Audit) Guidance Notes Glossary of Terms Transport for London (TfL) London Low Emission

More information

Schroders Schroder Global Blend Fund

Schroders Schroder Global Blend Fund Schroders Schroder Global Blend Fund Product Disclosure Statement Issued 27 October 2014 Contact details Schroder Investment Management Australia Limited (ABN 22 000 443 274) (AFSL No: 226 473) Registered

More information

INSURANCE BROKERS CODE OF PRACTICE

INSURANCE BROKERS CODE OF PRACTICE INSURANCE BROKERS CODE OF PRACTICE INSURANCE BROKERS CODE OF PRACTICE OVERVIEW 4-5 IMPORTANT BACKGROUND INFORMATION What does the Code do for you? (Code Objectives) How to navigate the Code How up to date

More information

Please print clearly 1 Please complete your name, address and contact details below. Title Surname Full given name(s)

Please print clearly 1 Please complete your name, address and contact details below. Title Surname Full given name(s) Bank of Melbourne Home and Contents Insurance Claim Case no. About this form Only complete this form if your claim is in respect to loss of or damage to Buildings/Contents/Personal Valuables or Legal Liability.

More information

MSD Supply Chain Programme Strategy Workshop

MSD Supply Chain Programme Strategy Workshop MSD Supply Chain Programme Strategy Workshop Day 2 APPENDIX Accenture Development Partnerships Benchmarking MSD s Current Operating Supply Chain Capability 1.0 Planning 2.0 Procurement 3.0 Delivery 4.0

More information

Consumer Code of Practice on Complaint Handling and Dispute Resolution

Consumer Code of Practice on Complaint Handling and Dispute Resolution Consumer Code of Practice on Complaint Handling and Dispute Resolution Introduction to our company and services: Hive Telecom provides telecoms services to residential customers and businesses. As Hive

More information

Sundry Debt Management and Recovery Policy

Sundry Debt Management and Recovery Policy 1. Introduction Sundry Debt Management and Recovery Policy 1.1 Forest Heath and St Edmundsbury Councils (referred to in this document as West Suffolk or the councils ) provide a wide range of services

More information

Credit Card Repayment Protection

Credit Card Repayment Protection Credit Card Repayment Protection Product Disclosure Statement and policy wording Effective 13 July 2015 1 Introducing Credit Card Repayment Protection. What is it? Credit Card Repayment Protection is insurance

More information

CONTRACTS STANDING ORDERS (CSOs) 2015 / 2016 CSO 2015-6 1

CONTRACTS STANDING ORDERS (CSOs) 2015 / 2016 CSO 2015-6 1 CONTRACTS STANDING ORDERS (CSOs) 2015 / 2016 CSO 2015-6 1 PART 3G Contracts Standing Orders 2015/16 Definitions Aggregation is the combining together of the total contract value from separate contracts

More information

CUSTOMER CHARTER. Version 6

CUSTOMER CHARTER. Version 6 CUSTOMER CHARTER R ETA I L Version 6 Introducing Tas Gas Retail Inside the Charter Welcome to Tas Gas Retail 2 About Tas Gas Retail 3 Account Information 4 Sample Account 7 Service Charges 8 Disconnection

More information