I've been invited to a black tie event next month with my other half, and I imagined if my partner asked me to buy her entire outfit, including shoes and other things.
This scenario would never happen because I have no clue about the detailed aspects of such a purchase, and she knows this.
So, do procurement personnel need to be technically aware?
Absolutely, and this is an area where procurement can generally improve.
Taking an interest in what your internal customers are doing and understanding why they need certain items, either internally or from the supply chain, shows you care and are eager to learn.
It's quite simple, really.
However, there is a line.
With high-risk purchases, such as a new outfit, I might be left out in the cold, but not entirely.
Stakeholders might think, 'It's too technical for procurement; they won't understand.'
Nevertheless, a budget still needs to be agreed upon for the outfit, and overspending is currently a no-go.
I will be asked for my opinion and will get involved in negotiations (I can't help myself), possibly even checking contract terms if anything is wrong with the outfit after purchase.
Additionally, by showing interest, I'll earn some Brownie points from my partner, reinforcing the caring aspect.
Therefore, internal procurement collaboration is essential, and it is certainly facilitated by procurement making a real effort to understand what they are buying.
Never assume and always ask....
Student at Porter and Chester Institute
3wI hear that nice company and great positive Culture good management worker hope I apply the Manufacturing Engineering Technician- Electronics position hope I can work with you guys