The priorities for digitization will vary by organisation, just as procurement priorities vary, but it is vital that technology supports the overall procurement strategy rather than being chosen in isolation.
It is also critical that internal stakeholders are involved in the process of digitizing procurement. Today, pretty much everybody engages with “digital commerce” in their private lives, so has a view on what they want and expect at work. Procurement professionals need to understand those stakeholder needs as they implement digitization.
The core of the paper then discusses in detail how a compelling business case for digital procurement investment can be developed. It describes the difference between “direct” and “indirect” benefits, and also the “cash” and “non-cash” distinction, which is important to understand.
Few business cases need to include every factor described here; but the Paper aims to provide a useful checklist for anyone putting together the case for investment.