Conflict has always shaped procurement—but since 2010, the pace of change has accelerated dramatically. From the structured systems of the 19th century to the strategic frameworks refined during global conflicts, procurement has evolved into a critical driver of resilience and performance. Today, technologies like AI, Big Data, and digital platforms are transforming procurement from a … Read more

The Polaris UGM-27 missile, now long retired, played a key role in shaping modern procurement strategies. As a nuclear-armed, two-stage, solid-fuel, submarine-launched ballistic missile, Polaris served as the main nuclear weapon of the US Navy from 1961 to 1980. Its development was a turning point for procurement professionals, laying the foundations for strategic practices still … Read more

This post analyses the influence of conflict on civilian procurement strategies, with particular attention to developments since 2010. Historically, procurement practices in both military and civilian contexts have been shaped by warfare, from early market-based exchanges to more structured systems established during the mid-19th century, notably during the US Civil War. The global conflicts of … Read more

My recent Poll showed most people believe procurement corruption can be reduced but not wholly eradicated. Cooperation among governments, businesses, and civil society helps lessen corruption, yet persistent self-interest makes full elimination unlikely. Corruption continues due to weak controls, limited transparency, and collusion, causing high costs, lower quality, and financial loss across sectors. Common Corruption … Read more

A recent Poll highlighted how global events influence procurement strategy. Geopolitical risks are crucial for strategic procurement yet often overlooked by buying professionals. Key geopolitical factors include: Embargoes and sanctions (e.g., West vs Cuba, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Venezuela, Syria; PRC vs Taiwan) Trade wars (notably USA-PRC) Hot wars (e.g., Russia-Ukraine) Cold wars (NATO-Russia, USA-PRC, … Read more

Iran has demonstrated its capacity to disrupt regional energy flows since the Iran-Iraq War of the 1980s; however, it remains uncertain whether this influence will impact the outcome of the current conflict. Recent missile attacks by Iran have targeted oil tankers and facilities, resulting in temporary interruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Consequently Brent crude … Read more

I recently ran a Poll concerning what re the most important of the three “C” s of Procurement. For those who are unaware or have forgotten, this simple post highlights what they are all about.   Within the Procurement “Three C’s” refer to Cost, Control, and Consolidation, providing a framework for managing expenses, overseeing the procurement … Read more

Especially since the 1990’s, modern manufacturing involves sourcing components, technology and design input on a” global village” basis, aspects such as political relations, sanctions, human and workers’ rights, trade wars, hot and cold wars all impact Procurement. Over the last twenty years or so, Procurement has gained a strong influential role regards influencing the organisation … Read more

Recently I posted a poll on the frequency with which supplier performance audits should be conducted from a Procurement Risk Mitigation perspective. The options were three, six and nine months. The overwhelming majority of participants voted for the six-monthly option, which of course is the recommended audit interval. However, on groups that were specifically orientated … Read more