Common Back Office (CBO) Step-by-Step Guidance Note

A country‑driven approach is outlined for establishing a Common Back Office (CBO), guiding UN Resident Coordinators and Country Teams through defining the service scope, assessing readiness, reviewing provider proposals and preparing for launch while meeting core requirements such as offering 50+ services, securing broad participation, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and implementing a case‑management tool. 

The process emphasises benefits such as reduced duplication, lower costs, improved service quality, a stronger focus on core mandates and faster adoption of operational innovations, while also addressing recurring challenges, including leadership transitions, resistance among entities and selecting the right service providers. 

To support smooth implementation, the guidance provides clear decision criteria, templates, evaluation tools and a full service catalogue to help countries build efficient, scalable shared‑service arrangements that enhance operational performance across the UN system.