Post on 05-Dec-2014
description
We recently asked our community of [customers],
“What’s the most important thing a procurement
professional should know?”
Here's what they had to say…
[procurement professionals from some of the nation’s most respected retail organizations]
“Quantify spend under management”
You can't save where you don't have visibility.
Identify all spend, and aggregate where possible, to really make an impact.
Education is key here. Arming buyers with a
process that's simple to follow, and ultimately
makes their lives easier, will ensure you get
everyone on board.
“Get all departments engaged in the process”
“All stakeholders are not all alike”
Adjust your approach for each buyer. Meet one-on-one to address potential concerns or misconceptions. Provide resources (sample events, training guides, etc.) that speak to each individual's specific need.
“All cost savings are important”
Those big dollar spends are easy targets, but don't
neglect the smaller ticket items. Making an effort to get
the best value in every category will have a big impact.
“Engage business partners properly”
Your e-sourcing provider should work in conjunction with the buyer to ensure vendors are comfortable with
1) the technology,
2) the specifications and
3) the expectations of the buying organization.
This promotes the highest level of compliance.
“Executive sponsorship is key”
A new way of doing things can
be intimidating. When the
executive team acknowledges
this and celebrates savings -
program buy-in (and results)
improve exponentially.
“Embrace change”Keeping an open mind and using e-sourcing tools in new, creative ways will ensure your program maintains momentum and continues to pay dividends.
“Vendor selection should not be based on just low price”
Don't be lured in by the 'lowest quote‘
syndrome. Identifying a great price is just one
step of the process.
“Follow up on quality control”
As with any sourcing project, continuous quality controlis key to ensure you're getting what you pay for.
“Centralize event management”
Providing not only templates, but the support of a knowledgeable program manager and dedicated resource from your e-sourcing provider makes those who only run a handful of events much more likely to embrace the process.
e-Sourcing isn’t just about technology.
Implementing an e-sourcing initiative? Or Looking to revitalize your existing sourcing program?
Contact Intesource
(800) 475-2149info@Intesource.comwww.Intesource.com