Abstract

This paper examines the optimization of purchasing through the use of Internet based systems (electronic Procurement). The focus of this paper is the impact of these systems on the supply chain structure and how they are able to change the procurement function to a strategic operating resource for the organization. The empirical research information is based upon a study carried out that analyzed the supply chain strategies being adopted by public organizations. Respondents ranged from 100 to state corporations, experienced users of e-procurement systems to those just starting out on their pilot investigations of the contribution of such systems to purchasing efficiency. A significant result from the study was that whilst a large number of organizations were e-procurement adopters, less than half of them believed that procurement had a strategic function. The case of state corporations is used, as an example, illustrating the ability of state organizations with a strategic capability in procurement, achieved through e-procurement systems, gaining significant organizational benefits via cost and process reductions.

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