There are a number of ways of describing the commissioning process, but they all share the same basic characteristics of effective commissioning. The basic stages in the commissioning process can be summarised as:

Understand – understand needs, resources and priorities and agree outcomes.
Resources and guidance are available here

Plan –  map and plan sustainable and diverse services to deliver outcomes
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Do – procure and develop services based on the plan
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Review – monitor service delivery of outcomes and take remedial action if necessary.
Resources and guidance are available here

All four of these stages are equally important, and should be transparent, with ongoing consultation and engagement with key stakeholders including providers and children, young people and families.