The advent of globalization and information systems has influenced a massive transformation in major business operations across the world today. This is because various processes have undergone revolutions to meet the demands and expectation of the society (Robert, 2008). Procurement procedures have also been subjected to the changes in the business and social perspectives. In order to keep pace with the progressions in supply chain management, procurement entities and agencies have embraced the use of various information systems to enhance a smooth operation of processes (Ross, 2002). Information systems are vital in the industry because they assist in the optimization of the available procedures and resources to undertake procurement operations.
Procurement and information need to work together in various perspectives in which they interact. The supply chain operations include remote service, retail, distribution, and production. In most situations, the supply chain network involves a huge number of player who is located in remote places (Intermec Technologies Corporation, 2007). Therefore, information technology can be very instrumental towards increasing the efficiency of the services associated with the procurement through the initiation of good platforms of engagement among the players. The wireless and networking technologies can be used in promoting the communication among the stakeholders and facilitate quick and effective connectivity through which communication can take place.
Procurement and information technology has distinct roles to play in the implementation of the relationship between them (Intermec Technologies Corporation, 2007). Procurement is a complex process that has strict guidelines and protocols for operation. The processes associated with the procurement also have their legal ethical and moral guidelines that govern their operations. On the other hand, information technology is also established on complex infrastructure and structural orientation. Therefore, in order for the strategic collaboration between the two entities to be implemented, there has been strategic alignments for each that is accommodative for both structural and cultural operations. For instance, the policies that govern procurement processes should be flexible enough to accommodate the abilities and capabilities of information technology (Intermec Technologies Corporation, 2007).
Public procurement agencies should embrace the use of information technology to improve the operation of the processes. Public prosecution is very wide, and this predisposes it to activities that are likely to increase inefficiency risks (Ross, 2002). The wide perspectives of operation for these operations also present complex situations in the implementation of new technologies and ideas in their operations. Cloud based systems should be integrated with the public procurement processes to enhance the level of connectivity. The use of mobile devices in public procurement is also unavoidable to enhance remote connectivity and communication among the collaborating parties.
Collaborative activities are very important in any organizational structures. The collaborative activities give platforms on which the parties can interact and share information that is essential for the organization. In order tom makes optimum use of the collaboration, there are various factors that need to be adopted by the members (Robert, 2008). Some of these aspects include embracing teamwork cooperation spirit in all endeavors. All the collaborating parties must be able to have commitments and determination towards a common goals through embracing interpersonal communication and team planning.
- Intermec Technologies Corporation, (2007). Top Ten Supply Chain Technology Trends. Intermec Technologies Publication.
- Robert, M. (2008). Purchasing and Supply Chain Management. Boston: Cengage.
- Ross, F.D. (2002). Introduction to Supply Chain Management Technologies. New York: CRC Press.
