A strategic partnering framework analysis methodology for public-private partnerships

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to view and analyse public-private partnerships (PPPs) under a strategic partnering approach between the key parties involved, i.e. public sector, private sector and lenders, and their business environment. Design/methodology/approach – A strategic partnering framework analysis methodology has been devised based on existing and well-known business strategic analysis tools (the political-economic-social-technological (PEST) and strengths-weaknesses-opportunities-threats (SWOT) analysis). The methodology consists of modules and may be used to identify the potential of strategic partnering in a sector and/or country and/or for a particular project in a procurement process. By using appropriate modules of the methodology, public sector partnering requirements or the market potential for PPPs, in general, may be assessed. Findings – The small-scale application of a module of the methodology is demonstrated through an international consultation on the influence of the present credit crunch. Findings indicate market changes and trends that may be pursued. Research limitations/implications – The proposed strategic partnering methodology may be used in all business partnership applications. Its scope is to identify the key elements on which the particular partnership should be based. Originality/value – PPPs have been viewed through finance- and service-based approaches. The present study introduces the view of a partnership-based approach. In the effort, the study also presents improvements to the commonly used PEST and SWOT analysis by adding a dynamic dimension to the analysis.