Theme: Local Government: Redefining ‘Competition’ as ‘Competitiveness’—The Best Value Activities of Registered Social Landlords

Abstract

This article draws on studies of 23 Best Value pilots in the housing sector to assess the ways in which competition has been incorporated into Best Value strategies. While out-sourcing appeared to comprise a very small element of pilot activities, closer examination identified a range of approaches taken by Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) to providing a more competitive service. Like local authorities, RSLs are struggling with the ‘make-or-buy’ decision. Pilots identified three essential prerequisites for using competition to promote Best Value: specifying services, finding out about suppliers, and acquiring client skills.