Thursday, July 29, 2010

Is IT for procurement?

IT has been (let’s just go out and say this) taking over the world for quite some time, and the benefits are vast and limitations endless. We have cloud computing, complicated algorithms for search engines, countless social media platforms, complex IT databases, the list goes on.

At some point, will procurement start to get entrenched – or to put it gently, influenced by the prowess of IT?

I say, procurement IS already influenced by IT.

A recent study from Gartner believes software applications can be beneficial or even crucial for procurement. The research suggests electronic procurement and sourcing applications can support organisations in saving money.

Of course, some companies have already leveraged the use of IT and reaped results.

But the report doesn’t stop there. It goes on to say that procurement technology programmes, when made mandatory, can be more effective than those allowed to be optional.

I ponder about this for a moment. Some of us welcome change, while some of us stick to the old Microsoft Word 2002 for all eternity because it is familiar. Some embrace the changing face of technology and adapt accordingly, while some linger behind and cling onto what’s safe.

So here’s something to think about on your end. Perhaps procurement could give IT a chance (if your company hasn’t) and adopt a system. It’s all about taking chances, and who knows, Gartner may be right and it will revolutionise the way we do business.

What do you think?

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