The purchasing and supply website

How to

Investment in the futureWhile investment banking has been somewhat off limits to purchasing professionals, applying procurement disciplines to this area can add significant value to a business. Guy Strafford explains how to get involved
An intelligent pursuitConducting a supply market analysis for any given commodity is a skill every supply chain professional should master. Elaine Porteous provides some pointers
Guide to Strategic SourcingThe fourth of Supply Management's series of guides to the basics of purchasing and supply covers the key steps to implementing an efficient sourcing strategy.
Guide to Collaborative workingThe third of Supply Management's practical guides to the basics of purchasing and supply covers how to work collaboratively
Commit to canvassFinding out what suppliers really think can enhance your relationship with them, says Andrew Hillman
Getting a purchase on trainingBuying external training can cost big bucks and has some big challenges. Chris Atkins looks at how to go about it.
Guide to Supplier AppraisalThe second of Supply Management's practical guides to the basics of purchasing and supply covers how to evaluate suppliers
Take a look around youWith a renewed focus on risk, internal audits of procurement are on the rise. Paul Desrosiers looks at how to prepare
Outsource in 7 stepsHow do you ensure your firm is getting value from IT and BPO investments? Dr Ilan Oshri outlines a method to effective outsourcing management
Guide to contract managementEverything you ever wanted to know about contract management ... but were afraid to ask
Let's take this outsideOutsourcing technology can save money, but choose the wrong supplier and it will cost you dearly, says Jimmy Desai
Meeting approvalQuantifying the cost of meetings and creating a strategy will produce greater benefits than simply saving money
Uncovering hidden costsThe issue of cost has never had such a great focus. Irrespective of sector, size or situation, the economic downturn has driven cost high up organisations' agendas.
On your marksIt's essential to have the right supplier, but how do you decide who's fit for the job? Peter Smith examines the pros and cons of a few approaches to assessing bids and tenders
10 ways to get noticedIs it possible to lift your profile during a recession? Yes, say these recruiters and purchasers, who've given Rebecca Ellinor their top 10 tips
Going fasterThere are risks and advantages to speeding up tender times. Ed Savage describes five ways to make it work
Quick ClicksThe fast-moving world of digital marketing is changing almost daily, so how can buyers keep up? Jane Simms gives an overview of the sector
The prize is rightRunning a supplier awards ceremony is one way of improving relationships and gaining innovative ideas from vendors. Andy Allen explains how to do it
What's on the agenda?David Taylor explains the 10 easy steps to buying meeting space
How to buy telecoms servicesThe telecommunications market is highly complex, and buyers should expect to strike contracts with more than one provider, says Sam Tulip