Thesis & Dissertation (Masters in Procurement and Supply Management)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10361/2675

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A systematic approach to sustainable procurement practices in Bangladesh Television
(BRAC University, 2025-08) Alam, Md. Ifther; Rahman, Syed Mahbubur; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
The increasing environmental challenges and the pressing need for responsible resource management have brought sustainable procurement to the forefront, especially in the public sector. This study delves into the existing practices, challenges, and opportunities associated with the implementation of sustainable procurement at Bangladesh Television (BTV), a prominent state-owned media organization. The research aims to establish a systematic approach that integrates the three pillars of sustainability—people (social), planet (environmental), and profit (economic)—into the decision-making process for procurement, ensuring that each decision considers long-term sustainability. In the regulated sector, public procurement pertains to how public sector organizations allocate public funds for the acquisition of goods, works, and services. It operates within a legal framework that emphasizes transparency, accountability, and the achievement of value for money for citizens and taxpayers. An analysis through the review of public procurement documents to find out the possible scope of sustainable procurement in present public procurement framework reveals that although there are some provisions in the Public Procurement Rules, 2008, Sustainable Public Procurement Guide, 2024 and Standard Tender Documents (STD) which relate to the sustainability issues, these are not sufficient in introducing sustainability in the public procurement including BTV. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining qualitative interviews with procurement officials from Bangladesh Television addressing three aspects namely economic, environmental and social aspect and relevant stakeholders, along with a review of policy documents and procurement records. The findings reveal that although there is growing awareness of sustainable procurement within BTV, actual implementation remains limited due to institutional inertia, lack of technical capacity, inadequate policy enforcement, and limited supplier engagement. Based on the analysis, the study proposes a structured model for incorporating environmental, social, and economic sustainability into BTV’s procurement lifecycle. The framework emphasizes the importance of strong leadership, regulatory support, capacity building, supplier collaboration, and performance monitoring to achieve meaningful sustainable procurement implementation. This research contributes to the discourse on sustainable public procurement in Bangladesh and offers practical recommendations for BTV and similar public institutions aiming to transition toward achieving greener and more responsible procurement systems.
Sustainable procurement and its implementation challenges in Bangladesh
(BRAC University, 2023) Bari, MD. Abdul; Chowdhury, Shish Haider; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
Sustainable procurement has evolved from "green" and ''social" procurement to an integrated approach balancing environmental, social, and economic interests. This research examines the challenges of implementing sustainable procurement in Bangladesh, a developing nation pursuing economic growth and equity. Despite rising expectations for sustainable products and practices, developing a cohesive sustainability strategy remains difficult. Supply chain oversight and risk mitigation pose challenges in validating environmental claims and tracking social outcomes, although emerging legislation addresses issues like modern slavery. Global efforts promote integrating international standards into procurement, but fully incorporating sustainability components persists as an obstacle. Complex supply networks and consumption patterns also create hurdles. Sustainable public procurement in Bangladesh demands comprehensive integration of social, economic and environmental considerations. Leveraging purchasing power, incentivizing human rights standards, and establishing training frameworks become essential. Aligning supply chain strategies with citizens' needs is paramount, fostering a society valuing human dignity, social progress, and a rights-based future.
Optimizing tendering processes and timeline forecasting for high-voltage substation and transmission line projects in Power Grid Bangladesh PLC
(BRAC University, 2025-11) Jamal, Noor; Morshed, Rashed; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
This has proven to be both necessary to the economic growth of the country since the expansion of the national electricity transmission system is reliable, but many projects by Power grid Bangladesh PLC have been faced with significant schedule overruns. This dissertation discusses the institutional and procedural causes of delays in tendering and timeline prediction. The research design used is a mixedmethod design, which triangulates data relating to the stakeholder surveys and interviews of two detailed practical project case studies: (i) the IDB and ADB-funded Grid Network Development Project and (ii) the World Bank-funded ECGSTL Project, which are supported by the review of the international best practices. The results of the case studies show that unrealistic DPP schedules, price-oriented (L1) assessments that promote underbidding, limited design and purchase capacity, and external constraints (land/Right-of-Way, seasonal disruptions, manufacturing and shipping lead times and donor approvals) continue to lengthen the implementation schedule 20-200% of the initial schedule. The study suggests a reform model including probabilistic scheduling (e.g., PERT and Monte Carlo simulations), a Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) model with weighted technical and financial requirements to evaluate competence and previous performance, organized capacity building, progress monitoring with the use of PMIS, milestone-based flow of funds, and active coordination of the stakeholders. All these are meant to change the administrative fixed planning to an analytical forecasted planning to align the practices of the Power Grid to the direction of the international development banks like ADB, World Bank, JICA, and KfW on value of money and implementation based on risks. The research adds a useful, locally customized template to enhance predictability and quality of the public power transmission projects in Bangladesh.
Implementation challenges of works procurement in accordance with the procurement plan mentioned in the development project proposal: in case of “city region development project” of LGED
(BRAC University, 2025-03) Hossain, Mohammad Shahed; Sarker, Tarun Kumar; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
The implementation of procurement activities within the LGED project, as outlined in the development project proposal, faces several challenges. Key issues include delays in procurement processes due to lengthy approval timelines and inadequate capacity within local procurement teams. Additionally, fluctuations in market prices and supply chain disruptions have hindered timely acquisition of essential goods and services. Compliance with regulatory frameworks often presents obstacles, as local stakeholders may lack familiarity with procurement guidelines. Furthermore, coordination among various departments has proven difficult, leading to inefficiencies and potential budget overruns. To address these challenges, it is critical to enhance training for procurement personnel, streamline approval processes, and foster better communication between stakeholders. Overall, these measures will be vital in ensuring that procurement activities align effectively with the established procurement plan, ultimately contributing to the successful implementation of the LGED project.
The possibilities and implementation practice of sustainable procurement in Local Government Engineering Department (LGED)
(BRAC University, 2025-10) Alam, Md. Shahrior; Chowdhury, Hasan Maksud; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
Sustainable Procurement (SP) incorporates environmental, social, and economic sustainability into procurement methods, guaranteeing long-term advantages for public sector entities. The Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) in Bangladesh is crucial in the development of rural, urban, and water infrastructure via comprehensive procurement initiatives. Nonetheless, current public procurement systems lack systematic frameworks to evaluate contractors' environmental and social performance, obstructing the incorporation of sustainability principles. This study examines the potential and implementation practices of SP within LGED, highlighting significant problems including insufficient policy enforcement, limited knowledge, and budgetary constraints. The results demonstrate that whereas Development Partner (DP)-funded projects integrate sustainability measures, Government of Bangladesh (GOB)-funded projects predominantly emphasize social and ethical dimensions, frequently overlooking environmental and economic factors. Enhancing sustainability in public procurement necessitates a comprehensive policy framework, robust governmental commitment, and capacity-building programs for stakeholders. The report advocates for strategic measures, such as sustainable procurement policies, contractor assessment criteria, and training initiatives, to promote the implementation of sustainable practices within LGED. Additionally, collaboration with development partners, private sector stakeholders, and regulatory bodies can facilitate knowledge exchange and resource mobilization to support sustainable procurement initiatives. In summary, incorporating sustainability into public procurement is crucial for realizing sustainable economic, environmental, and social advantages. Despite existing limitations, effective policy interventions and capacity-building initiatives can markedly enhance sustainable procurement processes within LGED. Additional research is advised to investigate the long-term effects of SP implementation, evaluate the efficacy of suggested interventions, and determine optimal strategies for expanding sustainable procurement throughout Bangladesh's public sector.
Supply chain management in garments manufacturing industry
(BRAC University, 2024-12) Sultana, Sonia; Moniruzzaman, Md.; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
The Supply Chain is not only a business function; it is also a network of companies and Supply Chain Management is the implementation of cross-functional relationships with key customers and suppliers in that network. It comprises of vendors that supply raw material, producers who convert the material into products, warehouses that store, distribution centers that deliver to the retailers, and retailers who bring the product to the ultimate user. Collaboration with other companies in the Supply chain will present win-win situations for this company and for other companies in the Supply chain. The garments industries are pivotal sectors in the global economy, characterized by complex supply chains that span multiple countries and involve numerous stakeholders. Effective supply chain management (SCM) is critical in these industries to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and meet the rapidly changing demands of the market. Supply Chain Management (SCM) in the garment industries involves the efficient coordination and management of the entire production process, from raw material sourcing to the delivery of finished products. This sector is characterized by its complexity and the need for flexibility due to varying fashion trends, seasonal demand, and the necessity for rapid market response. Key aspects include sourcing quality raw materials, managing suppliers, optimizing production processes, and ensuring timely distribution. Effective SCM in this industry seeks to reduce lead times, control costs, and improve product quality while maintaining sustainable practices. By integrating advanced technologies and data analytics, companies can enhance visibility, streamline operations, and adapt quickly to market changes, thereby gaining a competitive edge. Overall, robust SCM practices are essential for meeting consumer expectations, achieving operational efficiency, and fostering innovation in the textile and garment industries. SCM is a critical aspect of the garments industries, requiring a strategic approach to manage the complexities and dynamics of global operations. By leveraging technology, fostering collaboration, and focusing on sustainability, companies can enhance their supply chain performance and gain a competitive edge in the market.
Understanding and digitalization of the supply chain in Bangladesh's RMG sector: current practices, challenges and opportunities
(BRAC University, 2025-04-22) Hossain, Raihan; Rahman, Syed Mahbubur; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
This dissertation explores the current practices, challenges, and opportunities in the supply chain of Bangladesh's Ready-Made Garments (RMG) sector, with a focus on digitalization. As the largest contributor to the nation's export earnings, the RMG industry faces significant supply chain inefficiencies due to limited adoption of advanced digital tools such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. The study analyzes data collected from key industry stakeholders, highlighting critical issues such as dependency on imports, quality control challenges, and inadequate logistics infrastructure. Additionally, barriers to digital transformation, including cost constraints, lack of expertise, and resistance to change, are identified. Despite these challenges, the research underscores opportunities for improvement through digital technologies, such as IoT, blockchain, and predictive analytics, which can enhance transparency, efficiency, and sustainability. Recommendations are provided to foster innovation and competitiveness in the sector, emphasizing the importance of ERP adoption, skill development, and strategic investment in supply chain digitalization.
Challenges and mitigation strategies for implementing a sustainable supply chain in Bangladesh’s dairy industry: a case study on BRAC Dairy & Food Project
(BRAC University, 2025-10) Hossain, Md. Sakib; Jabbar, Md. Wasim; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
This study explores the challenges and mitigation strategies of implementing sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) in Bangladesh’s dairy sector, with a focus on the BRAC Dairy & Food Project (Aarong Dairy). A mixed-methods case study was conducted with 47 respondents across different supply chain roles, combining survey data with open-ended questions. Quantitative analysis included descriptive statistics, reliability testing, correlation, ANOVA, and multiple regression, while thematic analysis provided qualitative depth. The findings show that awareness of sustainability is high, and most stakeholders see it as essential for BRAC Dairy’s long-term success. However, persistent barriers remain, such as seasonal disruptions, the high cost of eco-friendly technologies, weak infrastructure, and consumer demand for cheaper products. Cold chain investments stood out as the most effective intervention. Regression analysis further revealed that logistics strategies, waste reduction practices, and farmer engagement were significant predictors of effectiveness, while procurement practices were not. The study emphasizes that real progress in sustainability depends on balancing economic, environmental, and social dimensions of the supply chain. Key recommendations include adopting renewable energy, introducing biodegradable packaging, expanding farmer training and incentives, and ensuring stronger government support. This research contributes to SSCM literature by situating the triple bottom line within a smallholder driven dairy industry. It also offers practical guidance for policymakers, supply chain managers, and development practitioners in Bangladesh and other emerging economies.
Smart contract management using distributed ledger system: a Bangladeshi context
(BRAC University, 2025-04) Rana, Md. Sohel; Chakrabarty, Amitabha; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
The adoption of smart contracts in Bangladesh’s public procurement system presents a transformative opportunity to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability. By automating procurement processes, smart contracts can reduce cycle times, minimize human errors, and improve contract execution. This will help tackle long-standing challenges such as corruption and inefficiency, fostering greater public trust. Additionally, smart contracts can reduce administrative costs by eliminating intermediaries and ensuring compliance through self-executing terms. However, challenges remain, including inadequate digital infrastructure, the lack of a supportive legal framework, and digital literacy gaps. To overcome these, Bangladesh must invest in digital infrastructure, update legal provisions, and provide extensive training for stakeholders. Pilot projects, stakeholder collaboration, and enhanced data security are also critical for successful implementation. With careful planning, smart contracts can significantly improve public procurement, contributing to better governance and economic development in Bangladesh.
Contract management practices and sustainability preparedness in Local Government Engineering Department (LGED): A review study
(BRAC University, 2025-09) Eamin, Md. Ashik; Chowdhury, Hasan Maksud; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
Public sector infrastructure projects are vital to Bangladesh’s socioeconomic progress, with the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) leading their delivery. However, persistent weaknesses in contract management hinder timely and cost-effective outcomes. Challenges include poor planning, procurement delays, weak monitoring, limited accountability enforcement, and inadequate integration of sustainability principles. This study employs a mixed-methods approach: a survey of 44 LGED officials and case studies of government-funded, mixed-funded, and donor-funded projects. Results show systemic shortcomings: only 14-20% of projects were completed on time, over 75% required extensions, and cost overruns occurred in up to 11.54% of cases. Liquidated damages were enforced in fewer than 7% of contracts. Digital tools are underutilized, with only 13.33% of officials using contract management software. Sustainability preparedness is partial. Although half of respondents reported its inclusion, practices mostly address environmental aspects, while social and economic dimensions, such as gender inclusivity and life-cycle costing, remain overlooked. Donor funded projects demonstrated stronger sustainability compliance due to external requirements. The analysis, framed through Principal-Agent, Transaction Cost, and Institutional theories, reveals that LGED’s challenges are systemic and institutional rather than individual. To address them, the study recommends reforms including a centralized Contract Management Information System (CMIS), mandatory pre-feasibility assessments, performance-based payments, sustainability scorecards, updated SOPs, a dedicated Contract Management and Sustainability Cell, and professional certification programs. Strengthening contract management is a strategic imperative for enhancing transparency, accountability, and sustainability in public infrastructure, supporting Bangladesh’s development goals and the SDGs.
The impact of sustainable procurement on the performance of supply chain management
(BRAC University, 2025-12) Alom, Md. Monjurul; Chowdhury, Hasan Maksud; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
This dissertation will discuss how sustainable procurement affects the performance of the supply chain management in Bangladesh in relation to organizations that have adopted sustainability initiatives in their procurement processes. Sustainable procurement is the process of integrating environmental, social and economic concerns in the process of making purchasing decisions in order to increase the efficiency of operations, minimize risks and create long-term sustainability within the supply chain. The research design of the current study is quantitative, with the use of a cross-sectional survey to collect the data on procurement professionals and supply chain managers working in various industries, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), manufacturing, and services. The survey is looking into the impact of sustainable use of procurement practice on various areas of performance of the supply chain such as cost efficiency, risk reduction, and the competitiveness of the business. The findings provided show that sustainable procurement and, more precisely, the cost management initiatives and business efficiency have a positive correlation with the supply chain performance. Specifically, the business organization, which takes the sustainability aspect into consideration in the procurement process, suggests that the organizations are more efficient in operations and have minimized the expenses. The study however also shows that there are other significant challenges such as the absence of suppliers that may satisfy the sustainability needs and heightened lively cooperation between the buyers and suppliers. These are the challenges to the ideal potential of sustainable procurement practices. The study, based on the findings, provides possible solutions on how sustainable procurement practices can be improved that involve the establishment of more efficient relationships with the suppliers, the improvement of the capacity building process, and the implementation of sustainability measures into the performance appraisal systems. Through the issues discussed, organizations are able to use sustainable procurement to enhance the overall performance of the supply chain and gain competitive advantage in the market.
Challenges of consulting service procurement: a case study of ADB funded projects of LGED
(BRAC University, 2025-11) Sarker, Sanjoy Mohan; Rahman, Md. Saifur; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
The procurement of consulting services plays a pivotal role in the successful implementation of development projects financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Bangladesh. Despite the existence of comprehensive procurement policies and regulations, the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) often encounters considerable challenges in ensuring timely and efficient recruitment of consultants. This study investigates the key challenges faced during the consulting service procurement process under ADB-funded projects of LGED, with an emphasis on identifying procedural bottlenecks and institutional constraints. Using both primary data collected through surveys of fifty procurement professionals and secondary data from selected ADB-assisted projects, the research reveals that delays frequently occur during the evaluation and approval stages by 90.48% and 285.37% respectively compared to the best practices described in national procurement rules which contributes largely towards the overall delay by 110.20% during the consultant selection process. Shortages of skilled personnel, limited institutional capacity, procedural complexities, and coordination gaps among stakeholders mainly contributed to this delay. Prolonged approval timelines from ADB and approving authorities further exacerbate these inefficiencies. The study concludes that enhancing staff capacity, simplifying approval mechanisms, adopting digital procurement systems, and improving coordination among stakeholders are critical to ensuring greater efficiency, accountability, and value for money in consultant recruitment. The findings provide practical recommendations for LGED, ADB, and national policymakers to streamline consulting service procurement and strengthen institutional performance in development projects.
Circular economy in Bangladeshi's apparel industry : the impact of sustainability on the supply chain
(BRAC University, 2025-10) Nath, Pronomita; Chowdhury, Hasan Maksud; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
In this study, the impact of integrating circular economy and sustainability measures on the efficiency of the supply chain in the Ready-Made Garment sector in Bangladesh is investigated. This is because the country’s industry plays a critical role in the economy and is currently under immense global pressure to transform its current linear “take–make–dispose” approach to a circular model that prioritizes waste reduction, resource efficiency, and environmental friendliness. The paper aims to do so through the following three objectives: to identify the current level of circular economy incorporation, establish a relationship between such an incorporation and supply chain efficiency, and suggest incorporation approaches ad hoc to sustainability. The study’s research design was quantitative, descriptive and causal, and primary data were collected via structured questionnaires in interviews with apparel industry supply chain, procurement, and sustainability specialists. Analysis was performed descriptively and inferentially through SPSS, and a descriptive measurement using Cronbach’s Alpha value demonstrated internal reliability and consistency against the survey instrument’s 0.973 score. The results revealed that most large export-focused companies invest in two sustainable elements: recycling textile waste and environmentally friendly sustainability. Small and medium enterprises, on the other hand, still face obstacles associated with financing, awareness, and technological factors. Furthermore, the Chi-square tests found statistically significant associations between circular economy, stakeholder interaction, and technology with supply chain efficiency, verifying all three hypotheses -. The results exposed that corporations adopting circular economy practices are more cost-effective and resilient, with shorter lead times. Conversely, stakeholder collaboration and technological innovation further strengthen them, demonstrating that sustainability is equally good for the environment and business competitiveness.
Green human resource management: the case of Central Medical Stores Depot (CMSD)
(BRAC University, 2025-11) Bhuiya, Saiful Islam; Chowdhury, Md. Hasan Maksud; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
The growing studies that focused on the topic of Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) with Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) has necessitate the writing of this study. Recently, academics and practitioners have increasingly paying attention to environmental management system and policies to improve sustainable performance through adopting environmental management system (EMS) in two major functions in the firm such as Human Resource (HR) and Supply Chain (SC) section. The integration between these practices can help the organizations to achieve Green Corporate culture and enhancement their sustainable performance in order to balance the Environmental, Economic and Social performance. The research finding will be specifically imperative for Government Supply Chain Organizations with the aim of improving sustainability.
Improving performance of store management: a case study of the IVVR project at Bangladesh power development board
(BRAC University, 2025-03) Anam, Abdullah Al; Biswas, Samir; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
The Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) is a state-owned organization that plays a pivotal role in the power sector of Bangladesh, responsible for generating, transmitting, and distributing electricity across the country. BPDB’s mission is to ensure a stable, reliable, and sustainable energy supply to meet the growing demand for electricity. Over the years, BPDB has expanded its infrastructure, upgraded its facilities, and adopted technological innovations to support the nation’s energy requirements. Approximately 90% of BPDB's total expenditure is allocated to the procurement of equipment and materials essential for construction and maintenance. Effective storage, management, and redistribution of these materials are crucial to ensuring operational efficiency. The warehouse function plays a pivotal role in adding value to the supply chain by optimizing inventory management and reducing waste. Given the large expenditure involved, continuous upgrades in store management practices are necessary to enhance efficiency. By adopting cutting-edge technology, BPDB can further streamline its operations, improve resource utilization, and strengthen its overall effectiveness in managing the power sector’s growing demands. A store is primarily regarded as an expenditure rather than a direct revenue-generating function. a store (or inventory/storage) represents an expense due to the costs associated with purchasing, maintaining, and managing stock. However, efficient inventory management can help minimize unnecessary costs and enhance overall financial performance. To effectively manage inventory and forecast demand, which enhances purchasing power leverage, businesses should prioritize accurate demand forecasting, utilize inventory classification systems like ABC analysis, optimize order quantities using methods like Economic Order Quantity (EOQ), and leverage technology to track real-time inventory levels, enabling timely purchasing decisions to secure the best prices and minimize overstocking. In today's world, warehouse management is an integral part of all businesses, ensuring efficiency in storage, distribution, and inventory control. If effectively and efficiently organized, BPDB warehouses can provide safe custody of materials, clear monitoring and accountability, and the timely distribution of the right goods in optimal condition to all user departments. A well-managed warehouse system can also help BPDB achieve maximum profitability with minimal investment by optimizing ordering costs and reducing excess inventory carrying costs. This study examines the store management system at the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), with a focus on the challenges and opportunities associated with the use of IVVR Software. Historically, BPDB's store management was based on manual, paper-driven processes. However, the digital transformation of Bangladesh has prompted BPDB to adopt a more modern approach, beginning with the implementation of the IVVR project in June 2000. The research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of this transformation by collecting data from various stakeholders within BPDB, including executive engineers, storekeepers, and other personnel involved in public procurement. The study employs a mixed-method approach, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire, which includes both closed and open-ended questions, administered via email and WhatsApp. The findings highlight both the challenges faced by BPDB's store management system, as well as the opportunities that the IVVR Software offers in improving operational efficiency. The results are presented through tables, pie charts, and column charts using Microsoft Excel and Word. The study’s findings provide valuable insights into the ongoing digitalization of BPDB’s procurement and store management processes, and offer recommendations for further improvements. Warehouse management plays a crucial role in controlling the flow of materials entering and being distributed within an organization. This study aims to offer valuable insights to BPDB policymakers by identifying areas for improvement in the existing warehouse management system. Implementing strategic enhancements can significantly boost operational efficiency, accountability, and overall performance in BPDB’s supply chain operations.
Uses of e-GP in public procurement: the benefits and challenges -a case study on Bangladesh power development board (BPDB)
(BRAC University, 2025-08) Taraque, Md. Asif Reza; Rahman, Muhammad Adnan; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
The implementation of electronic government procurement (e-GP) has significantly reshaped public procurement procedures in Bangladesh, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accountability. This research investigates the application of e-GP within procurement operations of the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), a prominent government organization tasked with electricity generation and distribution. The study identifies both advantages and obstacles associated with adopting e-GP in BPDB’s procurement activities. Study findings indicate that e-GP enhances transparency, competitiveness, reduces procurement cycle time, minimizes corruption risks, and improves wide supplier participation in BPDB. However, several challenges persist, including both physical and technical limitations, infrastructure and internet connectivity issues, lack of adequate training among procurement officials. Furthermore, insufficient training and video tutorials create hindrance in e-GP adoption for newcomers. This case study, based on a combination of primary data from procurement officials of BPDB and secondary data analysis, provides insights into how BPDB navigates these benefits and challenges. The study suggests policy and procedural recommendations, including capacity building initiatives, infrastructure improvements, and measures to optimize e-GP implementation. Strengthening these areas will ensure that e-GP contributes effectively to improving procurement efficiency in BPDB and other government agencies in Bangladesh
Procurement in the information technology (IT) sector: challenges and opportunities
(BRAC University, 2025-12) Riad, Sumsuttibriz; Chowdhury, Shish Haider; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
Purchase of Information Technology (IT) goods and services has become a critical aspect in the operations of both the public and the private sector all over the world. The increasing focus on digitalization, e-governance, and the modern service delivery eco-system in Bangladesh has placed IT procurement to be very significant in the country. Nevertheless, even with advances in Public Procurement Act (2006), Public Procurement Rules (2025) implementation and the introduction of the electronic Government Procurement (e-GP), IT procurement is still hit by several challenges that curtail effectiveness, transparency and efficiency of the process. This study examines the issues and challenges of IT procurement, in particular as expressed in the area of government and the issues as seen in comparison to the commercial world. The research study has a mixed approach method by relying on both quantitative data based on surveys and qualitative data from interviews and focus group discussions with the procurement officials, IT consulting firms/suppliers, and policy experts. Government materials, scholarly research, and other best practices abroad are likewise tapped as secondary data to give context. These results point to some consistent issues of blurry or incomplete technical specifications/ToRs, over-prioritizing on the lowest bid compliance, the existence of a rigid legal and procedural system, a lack of technical expertise in the procurement department, poor integration between systems, and ineffective cybersecurity and data management. Most of these problems arise due to the incompatibility between the dynamic aspect of technology (rapid change) and the slow methodical procurement landscape. Simultaneously, the paper indicates the obvious chances to enhance IT purchasing. Venturing further, the increased functionality on the e-GP system, the acceptance of data analytics as a support in decision making, introducing new models of procurement like agile, modular contracting and developing the capacity of the procurement department are all expected to be promising reforms. Improvement in transparency, efficiency, and value of money can also be secured with the use of emerging technologies, including secure transactions via blockchain, an automated analysis via AI, and assets monitoring via IoT. The study is unique because it serves the needs of the literature by attempting to explore the Bangladesh context, which has not been explored much on the study of IT procurement. It also fills the divide between the legal and technological points of view and makes evidence-based policy and practice recommendations. The main suggestions are: refinement of the requirement definition, the inclusion of lifecycle costing during the assessment process, training of staff involved in procurement processes within IT-related skills, a greater flexibility of the procurement model, and better governance to make sure projects achieve their aim. Finally, This paper maintains that IT procurement with appropriate reforms promises to become the leading source of innovation and improved services to the people and digital transformation of a country. The results can be applied to the policymakers and procurement practitioners not only in Bangladesh, but also in developing nations, which experience the same issues.
Exploring the dynamics of supplier relationship management in manufacturing : enhancing risk resilience in business operations
(BRAC University, 2025-02) Hakim, Md. Ataul; Morshed, Rashed; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
The dissertation is targeted to achieve a key insight in SRM dynamics of Manufacturing in Bangladesh and risk resilience enhancement opportunities to guide a competitive edge to secure the core business challenges in evolving business dimensions. In Bangladesh, major manufacturing industries have skimming from a traditional start-up to till without the adaptation of strategic supply chain positioning which appears to be a barrier to them to established business sustainability and value chain integration to leverage business goals. Supply Chain Management practice adaptation not observed widely in manufacturing business sectors whereas supply chain concept is spread upon business requirement and bounced back by operational silos through variegated misconceptions in contrast to ultimate revenue generation to business. As Global business dimension is changing every day and survival in Business facing more challenges, business needs to be more integrated and shift their key consideration in areas like SRM & Risk Resilience. Industry wide SRM & Risk is inter-related in terms of Supply continuity and business excellence. Spending strategy & business security is now emerging concern for Conglomerates aiming to sustainability in changing business environment. In this thesis, I try to develop a guide to the possible SRM & Risk resilience strategy and its possible standout to find solutions to win over the future challenges.
Enhancing the tendering and evaluation process for sustainable procurement in public sector of Bangladesh
(BRAC University, 2025-11) Islam, Habibul; Khan, Masud Akhter; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
This study explores how sustainability can be integrated into the tendering and evaluation processes of Bangladesh’s public procurement system. Guided by six objectives, it assessed current practices, officials’ knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP), regulatory gaps in the Public Procurement Rules (2008), barriers to implementation, capacity needs and reforms to enhance evaluation. Using a pragmatic mixed-methods design, data were collected from 19 procurement officials through questionnaires. Quantitative analysis summarized awareness, training and practices, while qualitative responses were thematically coded. Findings show that although officials hold positive attitudes toward Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP) 84% support embedding it in PPR 2008 actual application is limited, with environmental criteria more common than social or economic. Key barriers include lack of training, unclear guidelines, budget constraints and supplier capacity. The study recommends updating PPR 2008, upgrading the e-GP system, capacity-building for officials, supplier development and pilot projects in high-impact sectors.
Sustainable procurement for Carbon-neutral construction
(BRAC University, 2025-10-25) Islam, Nafiul; Chowdhury, Hasan Maksud; BRAC Institute of Governance and Development
This study explores the integration of sustainable procurement practices within the construction sector of Bangladesh, using National Development Engineers Ltd. (NDE) as a case study. The research aims to assess how sustainability-driven procurement policies can contribute to achieving carbon-neutral construction by embedding environmental, social, and economic considerations across all purchasing and supply chain processes. Adopting a mixed-method approach, the study combines quantitative survey data from 25 respondents across NDE’s Procurement, Finance, Quality, and Project departments with qualitative interviews of key managerial personnel. Statistical analyses, including regression and correlation tests, were applied to examine relationships between sustainable procurement adoption, supplier engagement, cost performance, and emission reduction. The results demonstrate a strong positive relationship between sustainability practices and Scope-3 emission reduction, with supplier engagement significantly enhancing compliance with ISO and Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) standards. The findings also reveal that sustainability integration does not increase overall procurement costs, highlighting its long-term economic viability. The study concludes that NDE’s structured procurement governance—anchored in ISO 20400 and PAS 2080 frameworks—effectively links traceability, digital documentation, and supplier development to environmental outcomes. It recommends expanding digital traceability systems, enhancing supplier training, and institutionalizing carbon accounting in procurement to accelerate progress toward carbon-neutral construction. This research contributes practical insights to the growing field of sustainable procurement and provides a replicable framework for other construction firms in Bangladesh and beyond.

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