Sullivan County Develops Centralized Contract Procedures to Improve Procurement Control
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Sullivan County Develops Centralized Contract Procedures to Improve Procurement Control

ByVincent Po

Local level governments take various approaches to procurement. Many use a traditional centralized purchasing system, while others have deregulated public procurement and allow departments more control over their purchasing decisions. Sullivan County, New York isn’t the only government adopting a hybrid system that combines the benefits of both centralized and decentralized processes.

International Shipping, Pollution, and Sustainable Supply Chains

International Shipping, Pollution, and Sustainable Supply Chains

ByVincent Po

As supply chains become more globalized, sustainable practices become a bigger challenge. NASA scientists have studied satellite images of the world’s oceans for more than a decade now, noting patterns that show signs of high pollution. The latest imagery shows high levels of nitrogen dioxide along heavily traveled shipping trails, especially the lane between Sri…

Procurement Transparency Turns Deadly in South Africa
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Procurement Transparency Turns Deadly in South Africa

ByVincent Po

Corruption and lack of transparency are global concerns in public procurement. Emerging markets often face the biggest struggles when it comes to fighting corruption. Some nations are forming watchdog groups to encourage whistleblowers to stand up against corrupt practices, such as Tanzania. In South Africa, however, whistleblowers need protection, not encouragement.

Efficient Supply Chains Could Save Global Food Supply

Efficient Supply Chains Could Save Global Food Supply

ByVincent Po

Based on current population growth, humans will need three planets identical to Earth by the year 2050 if we hope to  sustain our present lifestyles. Sustainable business practices, particularly in the supply chain, can reduce the impact society has on the environment, but can also cut costs for both businesses and consumers.

Do DC Procurement Practices Need a Makeover?

Do DC Procurement Practices Need a Makeover?

ByVincent Po

Just days after the January 28th release of an Independent Auditor report for the 2012 fiscal year, District of Columbia mayor Vince Gray announced plans to reform the state’s procurement processes. The procurement initiative is one of several strategies outlined in Gray’s State of the District speech on February 5th to “make sure the District’s…

Friend or Foe: Where Does Amazon Fit into Your Supply Chain?

Friend or Foe: Where Does Amazon Fit into Your Supply Chain?

ByVincent Po

What started as a small online bookstore in 1995 is now the world’s largest online retailer with a better selection than most brick-and-mortar department stores. The internet giant continues to grow and expand, now offering commercial materials for various industries through AmazonSupply. Amazon has gained a strategic position in the global supply chain and continues…

Outsourcing or Poor Supply Chain Management: Who’s to Blame for the 787 Crisis?

Outsourcing or Poor Supply Chain Management: Who’s to Blame for the 787 Crisis?

ByVincent Po

With the entire 787 Dreamliner fleet grounded indefinitely, Boeing engineers and officials are pointing fingers down the supply chain to find the source of the problem. According to the company, one of several outsourced suppliers is to blame for the battery fires that occurred in two of their new jets.

Strategic Sourcing in Public Procurement Has Room for Improvement

Strategic Sourcing in Public Procurement Has Room for Improvement

ByVincent Po

Strategic sourcing is becoming increasingly important in the public procurement sector, but many governments are still struggling to add effective strategic processes. The US General Services Administration (GSA) launched the Federal Strategic Sourcing Initiative (FSSI) in 2005 and still doesn’t have a fully effective strategy in place.

Is Local Sourcing Always Best Practice in Public Procurement?

Is Local Sourcing Always Best Practice in Public Procurement?

ByVincent Po

Many emerging markets and developing countries are launching public procurement initiatives designed to boost local manufacturing in certain sectors. Ideally, these programs should create new jobs and stimulate the national economy. In the long run, local public procurement initiatives will help countries find their place in the global trade arena.