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Jan Broda, strategic buyer at Stromag GmbH, talks about the challenges and successes of digitization in the company's purchasing.
Stromag, a globally recognized market leader in the development and manufacture of innovative power transmission components, has set out to make its purchasing processes more efficient and transparent. The e-procurement solution from simple system made a decisive contribution to this. In an interview, Broda explains how digitization has not only simplified processes, but also relieved purchasing and optimized costs.

After more than 25 years of free use, simple system has introduced a pricing model. Why? Because digitization doesn't work without investment — and because that's exactly what many customers expected. In this interview, our VP Growth & Sales Operations, Fabian von Kleinsorgen talks about the reasons for the change in strategy, about internal discussions — and about why price transparency is not a risk but a sign of trust.

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Procurement is at the center of many digitization initiatives — but how can a transformation be achieved that creates real added value? A look at Wemhöner SurfaceTechnologies GmbH & Co. KG shows how the consistent digitization of C-parts procurement not only speeds up processes, but also inspires employees and realizes potential savings. The company from Herford proves that anyone who thinks holistically about digitization can secure sustainable competitive advantages.

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The right vendor is the foundation of every successful supply chain and therefore a decisive factor for corporate success. But what exactly defines a supplier, what types are there, and what criteria should you use to select the best partner for your company?

This page provides you with a central overview of the topic. We explain the most important terms and show you the key aspects of dealing with your suppliers — from the initial search to a long-term partnership.

The right vendor Finding is one of the most decisive success factors for every company. Whether you're launching a new product or using your existing supply chain as part of Purchasing optimization want to improve — the reliability and the quality of your partners decisively determine your own chances of success. An unreliable partner can result in production downtime, quality deficiencies and dissatisfied customers.

But how do you find the perfect partner in a global market full of potential providers? Die supplier search is much more than a quick search on the Internet. It is a strategic process that requires care, a clear structure and the right tools.

This guide takes you step-by-step through the entire process. From the initial needs analysis through the various research channels to the final evaluation and selection, we will show you how to efficiently and unerringly find the partner who really goes with your undertakings fits.

“What you can't measure, you can't steer.” This quote brings up the central challenge in modern purchasing straight to the point. Considered a purely operational department for a long time, the sourcing developed into a decisive strategic partner who makes a significant contribution to the company's success. But how can this value contribution be made visible and controllable? The answer lies in a well-thought-out system of key figures, also known as key performance indicators (KPIs).

A professional purchasing controlling based on the right indicators, performance makes it transparent, uncovers savings potential and helps to minimize risks. This article is your guide to building such a system. We will explain how to select and categorize the appropriate key figures for your goals.

Special Kanban systems enrich C-parts procurement by automatically aligning orders with actual consumption and replace manual processes. Through the digitization and automation, Storage costs can be reduced and sources of error can be minimized.

C-parts such as screws or seals have a low individual value, but large quantities are essential for production and operation. Procurement is often complex. A well-organized warehouse reduces downtime, storage costs and capital commitment. Efficient C-parts management strengthens competitiveness and optimizes the value chain.

A reliable C-parts supplier is crucial for a smooth supply with important small parts in high procurement volumes within the company. The selection of suitable suppliers ensures that the required parts are always available and that production processes run without interruptions. Through optimized procurement, companies can Save time and costs sustainably and exploit the full potential of logistics.

Purchasing optimization is an important Success factor for companies. Thanks to efficient processes and strategic approaches, they save costs and increase their competitiveness. Modern technologies and data-driven decision supports raise procurement processes to a completely new level and create new opportunities for increase in value.

Technical purchasing requires more and more Know-how, strategic thinking and the use of modern technologies. With the right approach and the right electronic assistant, companies optimize their purchasing strategies. They remain competitive despite increasing difficulties.

Digital procurement is currently an indispensable undertaking in order to make processes in the purchasing department more efficient and to design and reduce costs at the same time.

Purchasing 4.0 means more than just digitization. He is changing the role of purchasing fundamental. Automation, data-driven decisions and networking make purchasing a strategic driver of innovation and competitiveness.

Key figures (KPIs) optimize procurement by measuring costs, efficiency, and supplier performance. Key KPIs include TCO, ROI, on-time delivery, and level of automation. Regular review and digital tools improve purchasing strategy and competitiveness.

Public procurement ensures the supply of government institutions and is subject to strict regulations. It differs from private procurement in terms of transparency, defined procurement procedures and the common good as a goal. Digital systems optimize processes, reduce costs and increase efficiency. There are challenges in decentralization, compliance, and sustainability.

Dynamic procurement systems (DBS) are fully electronic, flexible and competitive processes that enable faster procurement and greater profitability. There are challenges in technical integration, training and legal requirements. They offer greater efficiency than traditional tenders.

Purchasing in 2030 will be digital, sustainable, and connected. AI, big data and automation optimize processes, while sustainability and agility are becoming more important. Successful buyers need technological and strategic expertise to master change.

Optimal procurement of goods is based on efficient processes, good supplier relationships and the use of technologies. Important aspects include demand planning, cost control and quality assurance. Tools such as “simple system” automate and optimize purchasing.

KPIs in purchasing measure the efficiency of procurement processes, help to reduce costs and improve quality. Key KPIs include costs per order, supplier quality, and savings through negotiations. Modern systems such as “simple system” optimize purchasing and integrate sustainability KPIs.

Purchasing 4.0 describes the digital transformation of purchasing processes through technologies such as AI, big data and automation, which increases efficiency, transparency and agility. This development helps companies remain competitive, reduce costs and better manage their supply chains.

Efficient procurement and warehousing ensure the flow of materials and reduce costs by avoiding overstocks and bottlenecks. Digital tools and optimized logistics strategies such as just-in-time delivery and automation ensure transparent and cost-effective processes.

Outsourcing indirect purchasing helps companies to reduce costs, optimize processes and focus on core competencies by having external partners take on purchasing tasks. Despite challenges such as data security and dependency, the benefits outweigh a clear and structured implementation.

The procurement of goods ensures the availability of required materials and forms the basis for efficient business processes. Strategic planning, digitization and sustainability optimize this process, reduce costs, ensure quality and strengthen competitiveness.

Corporate purchasing is divided into operational and strategic procurement. Digitalization and technologies improve processes through automation, transparency and data analysis, reduce costs and increase flexibility when market changes.

Purchasing 4.0 optimizes processes with AI and cloud, reduces costs, increases efficiency and promotes data-based decisions. Despite challenges, digitization offers great opportunities for competitiveness and sustainability.

Risikomanagement im Einkauf gewährleistet Sicherheit und Effizienz. Proaktives Management hilft, Störungen wie Lieferanteninsolvenzen, Preisschwankungen oder Qualitätsprobleme früh zu erkennen und zu mindern. Strategien und moderne Tools wie simple system bieten Transparenz und Automatisierung, minimieren Risiken und optimieren Prozesse. So sichern Unternehmen langfristig Kosten, Kontinuität und Wettbewerbsfähigkeit.

Beschaffung versorgt das Unternehmen mit notwendigen Gütern und Dienstleistungen. Effiziente Beschaffung senkt Kosten und sichert Qualität sowie Nachhaltigkeit. Mit einer guten Strategie und Unterstützung, z.B. durch simple system, lassen sich Einkaufsprozesse optimieren und die Profitabilität steigern.

B2B-Plattformen in Deutschland erleichtern den Handel zwischen Unternehmen, optimieren Prozesse und erschließen neue Märkte. Durch Automatisierung, digitale Integration und Trends wie KI oder Nachhaltigkeit stärken sie Effizienz und Wettbewerbsfähigkeit.

Digitale Beschaffungsplattformen automatisieren und zentralisieren Einkaufsprozesse, wodurch Unternehmen Prozesskosten senken, Effizienz steigern und Fehler reduzieren können. Diese Plattformen verbessern Transparenz, ermöglichen bessere Verhandlungspositionen und fördern eine gezieltere Nutzung von Ressourcen, was die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit erhöht.

Beschaffung ist entscheidend für den Erfolg. Optimierte Lieferketten, moderne Technologien und nachhaltige Praktiken sind unerlässlich. Systeme wie simple system erhöhen Effizienz, und starkes Lieferantenmanagement stärkt die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit.

Der Großhandelseinkauf bietet Vorteile wie günstige Preise und große Produktvielfalt. Erfolgreich einkaufen erfordert sorgfältige Planung, die richtige Händlerwahl, gute Konditionen, Bedarfsermittlung und Produktprüfung. Langfristige Beziehungen und Anpassung an Marktveränderungen sichern die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit.

In einer wettbewerbsorientierten Wirtschaft ist die effiziente Gestaltung von Einkaufs- und Beschaffungsprozessen essenziell, wobei Procurement Sourcing durch strategische Lieferantenauswahl und Prozessoptimierung eine zentrale Rolle spielt. Dies ermöglicht Unternehmen, Kosten zu senken, die Qualität zu verbessern und widerstandsfähigere Lieferketten aufzubauen.

Digitale B2B-Handelsplattformen revolutionieren den Handel, indem sie Lieferketten integrieren, Transparenz verbessern und maßgeschneiderte Lösungen bieten. Mit Funktionen wie Automatisierung, personalisierten Angeboten und Datenanalysen steigern sie Effizienz, senken Kosten und optimieren Geschäftsstrategien.

In 2024, procurement management will fundamentally change as a result of digitization and technological progress. Companies must work more efficiently, transparently and cost-effectively. Procurement systems, tailor-made software solutions, support this by automating and optimizing procurement processes from planning to invoice processing.

Holger Dermann, eBusiness & Services Project Manager at the Hoffmann Group, explains his forecast for 2024 in a short technical article. Important topics such as a shortage of skilled workers, supply chain legislation and digitalization will continue to challenge companies in the coming years. This must be counteracted at an early stage.

Online shopping has undoubtedly taken on a transformative role not only for private individuals but also for businesses. The way in which companies procure their equipment and goods on the Internet has changed significantly thanks to the Internet and digital trading platforms. The trend towards online commercial shopping offers companies a wealth of options.

Effective procurement management ensures competitiveness through cost control, strengthening the supply chain and quality assurance. Strategic procurement management requires long-term planning, close cooperation with suppliers and integration of e-procurement. Efficient supplier management through long-term partnerships optimizes procurement processes.

The procurement trends for 2022 to 2024 emphasize the importance of digital transformation, sustainability in the supply chain and the integration of cloud solutions. Cloud-based purchasing systems offer flexibility, scalability, and improved data analysis, which enables companies to make their procurement processes more efficient and make well-founded decisions.

In today's dynamic business world, efficient handling of ordering processes is crucial for a company's success. A B2B sales platform offers companies the opportunity to to optimize processes and their improve sales strategies. But what exactly is a B2B sales platform and how can it be used effectively to simplify and accelerate ordering processes?

Efficient procurement management is crucial for companies to strengthen their competitiveness and optimize their operating costs. In this context, choosing the right procurement partner plays a central role. A procurement management partner can help companies find the right suppliers, reduce costs, minimize risks, and increase efficiency in the procurement process.

An efficient purchasing process is crucial for companies to reduce costs and increase competitiveness. While direct procurement, which involves the purchase of raw materials and products, is often in the limelight, too indirect purchasing special attention.

In the modern business world, procurement tools play a crucial role in designing an efficient and cost-effective procurement process. These softwares are innovative technologies and platforms that help companies optimize their procurement activities.

Shopping in 2024 is no longer what it once was. Shopping cart apps, self-service portals, and artificial intelligence have fundamentally changed the way we shop. Digitalization has also found its way into corporate purchasing.

Various tasks shape the field of procurement logistics, including strategic supplier selection, order processing, implementation of e-procurement systems and optimization of the entire material flow. Particular attention is paid to a smooth process from receipt of order to physical acceptance of goods upon receipt of goods.

Procurement is one of the most important functions of a company and includes both operational and strategic aspects. But what exactly is behind these terms?

In this article, we will take a closer look at the definition, differentiation and examples of purchasing and procurement logistics in order to gain a better understanding of its significance and role in a corporate context.

By using digital platforms, companies can make more effective purchasing decisions and automate the entire procurement process. This results in increased efficiency, time and cost savings, and improved transparency and traceability of procurement activities.

E-procurement simplifies procurement through electronic systems. It offers cost savings, efficiency improvements, and improved transparency. Future trends include AI, big data, blockchain and sustainability in the procurement process.

Indirect procurement supports the company overall, as opposed to direct procurement of production materials. Effective strategies are aimed at cost optimization and long-term vendor relationships.

A digital B2B purchasing platform optimizes procurement processes, simplifies vendor management and offers a comprehensive product catalogue. The seamless integration with the ERP system enables efficient data transfer and automated order processing for maximum efficiency.

Long-term, strong purchaser-vendor relationships are crucial in order to be well positioned in any economic situation. This is exactly where B2B platforms can strengthen digital procurement. However, simple system does not communicate with the direct relationships between buyer and supplier, but acts as a neutral medium for their transactions and relationships with each other.

Germany does not have the reputation of being at the forefront of digitization worldwide. This is also underlined by the European Commission's eGovernment Benchmark 2022, in which Germany finished 21st out of 35 places. It is often established medium-sized companies that have difficulties modernizing traditional business processes. Isabelle Coudert, who heads supply chain management at WILKA Schliesstechnik, demonstrates, however, that digitizing purchasing can serve as a first step.

“Thanks to the connection of our proven GARANT Tool24 dispensing machine to simple system, demand messages are now processed fully automatically until the goods are received. Thanks to the four-eye principle in combination with the release settings in simple system, we always maintain full control. More comfort is not possible. Both production and purchasing now have more time to take care of their essential tasks. ”

“The integration into our SAP ERP® took place in February 2017 and we were immediately impressed by the clear presentation of the procurement process in the simple system cockpit. Our approvers check individual processes there and then approve the orders. We save frequently used products in the favorites list and have them right at hand the next time you order. ”

Wherever machines need to be kept running, maintaining departments ensure seamless support. To ensure that he is always ready to act, these departments — such as locksmiths or toolmaking — need a stock of recurring maintenance items.

Process costs are not really perceived by many companies. In doing so, they can achieve disproportionate dimensions, especially when procuring C-parts. These mostly hidden costs can be avoided thanks to automated processes.

Even in times of e-mail, chatbots and machine-2-machine communication, the principle “transactions are done between people” applies — at least in the B2B segment. Especially in medium-sized companies, business relationships are always personal relationships.

The conversion of the paper-based order request (BANF) to a digital process is sometimes perceived as a burden by the affected employees in the specialist departments. Familiar, cherished ways of working are omitted; instead, new, unknown processes must be learned.

The digitization of procurement using eProcurement Systems provides an effective means of handling the purchase of C-parts and indirect requirements. With minimal workload on the part of the purchasing department, thus creating space for the strategically decisive procurement of A and B parts.

Procurement platforms often focus on C-parts and indirect procurement. But how do A, B and C parts actually differentiate themselves from one another? What challenges does the purchasing department face when it comes to procurement? And what does “indirect procurement” mean? Here is a disambiguation.

“The introduction of simple system not only gives us, as buyers, more time for strategically important tasks. The high degree of automation has significantly reduced the process costs for C-parts management at DUDOCO: The savings here amount to around 70,000 EUR per year. ”

“We quickly gained a lot of positive experiences with the digitization of indirect procurement,” reports Mr. Gutekunst, Head of Purchasing at Memminger-Iro. “But the different purchasing systems still complicated the process. We were therefore looking for a central platform that could be used to process the purchase of C-parts and indirect procurement. ”

“simple system strengthens the direct relationship between buyers and suppliers and at the same time supports digitization. Self-service allows us to act quickly and individually ourselves, so that customers have immediate access to the goods they are looking for, giving us an enormous market advantage.”

Solutions instead of products: Michael Feierabend, sales manager at Office Mix GmbH, explains how Office Mix manages the balancing act between C-articles and individual goods.

Hardly any company starts off on a greenfield basis. Standard eProcurement solutions cannot help with complex structures in business and purchasing. simple system creates procurement solutions tailored to the customer through individual customer service and advice.

“For RS Components, simple system is a strategic partner that helps us to be on the winning side in the current trend to consolidate supplier relationships. The ease of use and excellent technical support and support in cooperation with the supplier result in significant synergies for the benefit of the joint customer base. ”

Long-term strong buyer-supplier relationships are crucial in order to be well positioned in any economic situation. This is exactly where B2B platforms can strengthen digital procurement. However, simple system does not communicate with the direct relationships between buyer and supplier, but acts as a neutral medium for their transactions and relationships with each other.

“simple system impressed with simple approaches, which were tailored to our company. Our demands to optimize procurement processes while reducing process costs were met shortly after implementation. Purchasing is relieved by procuring C-items and has free resources available for the actual core business.”

“Due to the simple integration into the system landscape, the introduction of simple system was implemented very quickly at SIG. The extremely wide variety of vendors impresses our purchasing department and users alike. Even complex local service processes such as maintenance and painting work are standardized and handled efficiently.”

“We now use a simple system to buy not only the piece of paper, but also the pens, the chair, and everything else the employee needs. Including the grinding wheel, the cutter knife or the gloves in the workshop,” says Al-Sahwi.