PPP/PFI
A number of countries around the world have engaged the private sector in the design, construction, financing and operation of public infrastructure. These models are variously known as DBFO (design-build-finance-operate), BOOT (build-own-operate-transfer), PFI (private finance initiative) or PPP (public-private partnerships). While there are some differences between various models, the application of language is by no means consistent. In the UK, these projects are known as PFIs, while the term PPP is used for a much wider range of complex partnerships. This section is devoted to this particular form of public sector contracting and relates mainly to the UK where this model has been used most extensively.