

Indirect procurement efforts may also involve the acquisition of the right e-procurement tools for better spending visibility.

For instance, you could work with a supplier to sign a bulk contract or alter certain item specifications in order to benefit from a better price. It’s a commitment to following internal procurement procedures and building strategic relationships with suppliers. The Role of Indirect ProcurementĬentralizing and formalizing the indirect procurement process flow is more than finding the lowest prices. In fact, it could provide a framework for determining annual budgetary allocations. However, better organization of the indirect procurement process will result in a more balanced focus. In many manufacturing enterprises, most attention goes to direct procurement. Giving More Focus to Indirect Procurement Process Flow This may help the company get better prices, favorable credit terms, and assurances about quality. Formalization of the indirect procurement process provides a chance to vet suppliers and develop long-term relationships. Whereas companies get to work with raw materials suppliers for a long period of time, it may not be the case with fragmented indirect procurement. This may result in high ordering costs and inconsistencies in quality, and it could create an opportunity for maverick spending. In many cases, indirect procurement items are ordered on demand. Whereas companies tend to have proper inventory management policies for direct procurement, it’s not the case with indirect procurement.

For better efficiency, organizations need to formalize indirect procurement for better visibility and control. However, in many cases, indirect procurement Is decentralized because departments have unique needs. In most cases, the direct procurement efforts of a company are centralized and overseen by a procurement team.

