Procurement Challenges – Isn’t Simpler a Smart Goal?
Isn’t simplifying the process of procurement a smart goal?
Every person I have spoken with in the last year has put simplification at or near the top of their goal list.
It is interesting to note that many leaders struggle to get their teams to let go of the familiar.
Resistance to change is often an unspoken issue, even when people are frustrated.
One executive I spoke with told me that he was shocked to learn that it took more than 20 steps to purchase anything!
There were no shortcuts in the process.
Is it any wonder that rogue spend was also a significant issue in his organization?
Despite the obvious benefits to simplifying the process it took six months to do that.
Once the changes were put in place the feedback from stakeholders was very positive.
Two other lessons this executive learned is this:
- Even if you are responding to criticism and making positive changes you need to market the benefits.
- Never assume that people will automatically accept that the changes will be better.
In this case, the procurement group realized that stakeholders were not ready to believe that the new way would be easier.
They had to experience it.
Here is a short list of ideas to consider to make your goal of simplification a reality:
- Plan your marketing first – if you know where you want to go and what the benefits are this is easy
- Don’t overthink it – err on the side of taking something out versus leaving it in
- Once you remove a problem people loved to complain about, they will find another one
- 20% of the people will love the changes, 20% will hate them and 60% won’t care that much.
- Now that you know how hard it can be to simplify a process, be very reluctant to add complexity in the future.
Ask better questions, make changes and 2019 will be your best year ever.
Action Step: If you are uncertain where to start the process of change, a procurement professional like myself can provide guidance and expertise to help your organization achieve the results you want.
If you want to go explore this topic in greater detail, please contact me. I invite you to request 30-minute discovery conversation. In my experience the next step will be apparent at the end of the call. I never assume that what I have to offer will be right for everyone, so don’t expect a sales pitch. You can reach me at 973-936-9672.
If you would like to know more ways to reduce costs without changing the way you do business, simply give me a call or send me an email with your contact information and the best time to reach you.
You Won’t Drift to Success©
Commit to taking the next step.
Until Next Time, I Wish You Great Success in Your Business and in Your Life
Mike Jeffries