DELAYS IN THE PREPARATORY PHASE OF THE PUBLIC PROCUREMENT PROCESSES OF THE COMPANY MANABÍ PRODUCE EP. A GOVERNANCE PROBLEM

Abstract

Delays in contracting processes are a recurrent and little-researched reality in public management. This study determined the causes that generated these delays based on the analysis of the Manabí Produce-EP case. The research methodological approach was mixed, descriptive, and explanatory, with a triangulation in data collection that combined documentary analysis of public procurement contracts for the period 2022-2023, as well as surveys and interviews with officials of the units directly involved in the procurement processes, to detail the activities of the preparatory stage in the procurement processes and to understand the magnitude and causes of the delays. The results constitute a methodological contribution to the study of public contracting and show the existence of delays in most contracts, especially in those with reforms. The analysis of delays reflects multiple causes related to the role of the actors involved in contracting, which makes it clear that the search for solutions is a matter of governance.