NOTES
Purchasing
In simple terms, purchasing is the act of buying what an organization needs to run its business.
2. The Purchasing Process
a) Recognizing a Need: A department (like IT or Production)
realizes they are out of something or need a new tool.
b) Identifying a Supplier: Looking for who can sell it to them.
This could be a quick search or a complex bidding process.
c) Placing the Order: Signing the contract and making the
"deal" official.
d) Monitoring Delivery: Making sure the items actually show up
on time and in the right place.
e) Evaluating: Did the supplier do a good job? If yes, keep them;
if no, look for someone else next time.
1. The "7 Rights" of Purchasing
The 7 Rights are the foundation of traditional purchasing
management. They ensure that the acquisition process is
efficient and supports the organization's needs.
, • Right Product: Buying the exact item that meets the user's
needs.
• Right Quality: Ensuring the goods meet the specific
standards required for their intended use—not necessarily
the highest quality, but the appropriate quality.
• Right Quantity: Buying enough to meet demand without
overstocking, which ties up cash and risks spoilage.
• Right Source: Selecting a reliable, financially stable
supplier who can deliver consistently.
•
• Right Place: Ensuring goods are delivered to the exact
location where they are needed (e.g., a specific warehouse
or factory floor).
•
• Right Time: Coordinating delivery so that items arrive
exactly when needed—neither too early (wasting space)
nor too late (causing delays).
•
• Right Price: Obtaining the best value for money,
considering the total cost of ownership rather than just the
cheapest sticker price.
2. Distinguishing Between Purchasing and Procurement