During the last three decades the privatization or outsourcing of what has traditionally been considered public goods and services has become commonplace. Many claim that privatization originated in the U.S.; some say that it started in Great Britain. Wherever it began, the forces and factors contributing to the devolution of public services to the private sector are common to all countries. Governmental budgetary constraints and the need for greater cost containment, along with calls for greater governmental accountability continue to fuel interest in outsourcing and facilities management.