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CIPS L4M1 Exam Syllabus Topics:

SectionWeightObjectives
Topic 1: Understand and analyse key steps in procuring goods or services25%- Procurement and supply cycle stages
  • 1. Sourcing, tendering, selection and contract award
    • 2. Defining need, market analysis and supplier appraisal
      - Contract and supplier management
      • 1. Performance measurement and relationship development
        - Application of technology and systems
        • 1. eSourcing, eProcurement and P2P processes
          Topic 2: Understand and analyse added value from procurement and supply chain management25%- Stakeholder management and mapping
          • 1. Internal and external stakeholders
            • 2. Influence, engagement and communication strategies
              - Global supply chain characteristics and impact
              • 1. Whole life costing and total cost of ownership
                • 2. Opportunities and risks in global sourcing
                  - Value generation and contribution to organisational goals
                  • 1. Cost savings, cost avoidance and value for money
                    • 2. Improving quality, service and innovation
                      Topic 3: Understand compliance requirements across sectors25%- Regulatory, legal and ethical compliance
                      • 1. ESG, sustainability and responsible procurement
                        • 2. Equality, diversity and inclusion
                          - Characteristics of public, private and third sectors
                          • 1. Objectives, regulations and accountability differences
                            - Impact of sector rules on procurement activities
                            Topic 4: Understand organisational infrastructure shaping procurement scope25%- Roles, responsibilities and accountability
                            - Governance, policies, procedures and strategy
                            • 1. Procurement policy development and alignment
                              • 2. Ethics, codes of conduct and professional standards
                                - Structures: centralised, decentralised and hybrid models
                                • 1. Advantages, disadvantages and suitability

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                                  CIPS Scope and Influence of Procurement and Supply Sample Questions (Q45-Q50):

                                  NEW QUESTION # 45
                                  Explain what is meant by the term Inventory Management System? Describe MRP and ERP systems explaining when they are used and the advantages and disadvantages of using them (25 points)

                                  Answer:

                                  Explanation:
                                  See the solution inExplanation partbelow.
                                  Explanation:
                                  How to approach this question:
                                  - Definition of Inventory Management System - a system, usually a piece of digital software, that helps an organisation manage their inventory. It oversees the process of ordering stock, receiving it, storing it and converting it into finished goods. Used predominantly in manufacturing organisations. MRP and ERP are types of IMS.
                                  - MRP - Material Requirements Planning- this is a planning, scheduling, and inventory control system used to manage manufacturing processes. Most MRP systems are software-based. The aim is to automate and improve the efficiency of ordering and processing raw materials.
                                  - ERP - Enterprise Resource Planning - this system uses MRP but also includes other operations such as finance, so allows for budgeting and forecasting, and customer relations. ERP gives an organisation a more holistic overview compared to MRP which just focuses on manufacturing.
                                  - When they are used - predominantly in the manufacturing industry for the ordering of goods. Not used for services. Used when there is a lot of maths involved in figuring out how much of something to order and when e.g. a chocolate manufacturer who needs to produce 50,000 chocolate bars a day. MRP / ERP helps the organisation know what to order, how much and when. It helps achieve the 5 Rights of Procurement.
                                  - Advantages - the advantages of MRP and ERP are very similar and in most cases the same: more accurate than manual processes, quicker response times, automated process frees up people to complete more added value tasks, flexibility, has real time information to inform on decision making, improved responsiveness to customers, improved supply chain management, reduction in costs.
                                  - Disadvantages - expensive, complicated, can break down or be hacked (as they're digital systems), only as good as the information put into them. training required to use.
                                  Example Essay:
                                  IMS
                                  An Inventory Management System (IMS) is a software application or set of tools designed to oversee and optimize the management of a company's inventory. The primary goal of an inventory management system is to maintain an accurate record of stock levels, streamline the procurement process, and ensure efficient order fulfilment. This system plays a crucial role in supporting businesses by helping them avoid stockouts, reduce excess inventory, and enhance overall supply chain efficiency.
                                  Inventory Management Systems have the following functions: demand management (which assists with forecasting, and helps the avoidance of overstocking), helps to control stock levels (by stating minimum and maximum levels), replenishment of stock in line with policies, allows automatic reordering when stock levels get low, tracks stock movements (e.g. around a warehouse), allows communication with suppliers and end users, and helps increase safety by ensuring stock isn't damaged or deteriorating.
                                  MRP
                                  MRP stands for Material Requirements Planning, and it is a computer-based inventory management and production planning system used by businesses to optimize the management of materials, components, and finished products in the manufacturing process. MRP is a key component of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, focusing specifically on the planning and control of materials and production resources.
                                  MRP systems uses 3 main modules: 1. Master Production Schedule- information on customer orders, forecast orders, customer requirements and stock orders 2. Bill of Materials - the recipe / breakdown of components of the finished product and 3. Inventory Status File - tells you the current stock levels.
                                  How MRP works- For example, a customer wants to order a new sofa. 1. input the customer order into MRP 2.
                                  Check finished stock and if there's a sofa, give the customer that sofa. If there isn't a sofa in stock, the MRP system will look at the Bill of Materials- looking at individual materials needed to make the sofa and will order these, factoring in lead times 3. confirm to customer what the lead time is on getting their new sofa, based on delivery time of materials and time to make it.
                                  MRP is a simple system - it doesn't take into account other business processes and can go wrong due to inaccurate or outdated information.
                                  Advantages of the MRP process include the assurance that materials and components will be available when needed, minimised inventory levels, reduced customer lead times, optimised inventory management, and improved overall customer satisfaction.
                                  Disadvantages to the MRP process include a heavy reliance on input data accuracy (garbage in, garbage out), the high cost to implement, and a lack of flexibility when it comes to the production schedule.
                                  ERP
                                  This is business management software which is used to collect, store, manage, and interpret data from many business activities. It uses MRP but also includes other operations such as finance, HR and customer services.
                                  Therefore it's more powerful than MRP. Where MRP can tell you how much of something to order and what the lead times are, ERP can also consider how many staff are available each day (by looking at holidays and sickness) and factor this into the manufacturing process. It can also produce accurate financial data, manage customer and supplier relationships.
                                  ERP facilitates information flow between all business functions and manages connections to outside stakeholders. SAP and Oracle are examples of ERP systems. There is also ERP II - this extends the system to include links with suppliers and supply chain stakeholders One of the primary advantages of implementing an ERP system is the integration of information across various departments. By providing a unified view of an organization's operations, an ERP system ensures that different functions work with synchronized and consistent data, fostering improved decision-making and collaboration.
                                  Operational efficiency is another significant benefit of ERP systems. Through the automation of routine tasks and streamlined processes, organizations can achieve greater efficiency, reduce manual errors, and enhance overall productivity.
                                  However, one of the primary disadvantages is the high initial implementation costs. Organizations must invest in software licenses, training programs, and customization to align the ERP system with their specific needs.
                                  The complexity of ERP systems and potential customization challenges can pose difficulties, requiring expertise and resources for successful implementation.
                                  Resistance to change among employees is a common hurdle when introducing ERP systems. Employees may be hesitant to adopt new processes and technologies, leading to a slower transition period and potential inefficiencies during the learning curve. Organizations also become dependent on ERP vendors for updates, support, and maintenance, and switching vendors can be disruptive and costly.
                                  In conclusion, while MRP and ERP systems offer numerous advantages in terms of operational efficiency, data integration, and strategic planning, organizations must carefully weigh these benefits against the associated challenges. A well-planned and effectively implemented system can contribute significantly to an organization's success, but the decision to adopt such a system should be approached with a thorough understanding of both its advantages and potential drawbacks.
                                  Tutor Notes
                                  - This is a really hard topic if you don't have a manufacturing background. The way I think about it is this- imagine you're Cadbury's and you're coming up to Easter. How much sugar do you need to buy and when do you need to buy it in order to make all your Easter Eggs? Hard question right? Well MRP / ERP is the clever software that figures that all out for you. It will tell you how much sugar needs to be bought on what day, in order for the delivery time to be right for manufacturing. It will consider storage costs and how quickly Easter Eggs get made in the factory. It's honestly so clever. Feel free to use that example in your essay. Examples like that show the examiner you understand the topic.
                                  - Although they're fabulous systems, using MRP and ERP systems doesn't guarantee success- at the end of the day they're just software- the key to success is in the accuracy of the data that's inputted into the systems and how the systems are used. That would make a strong conclusion.
                                  - This is a good simple video that explains the topic: What is Materials Requirement Planning (MRP)?
                                  (youtube.com) I also like watching How Its Made - a documentary series about factory life. You can find it on BBC Iplayer. If you don't have a manufacturing background it helps give context to some of these dry subjects like MRP and Just-in-Time manufacturing.
                                  - LO 3.4 p. 175


                                  NEW QUESTION # 46
                                  Discuss the importance and role of an organisation's branding in procurement and supply operations (25 marks)

                                  Answer:

                                  Explanation:
                                  See the solution inExplanation partbelow.
                                  Explanation:
                                  How to approach the question
                                  - This is a very open question so your essay could discuss
                                  o the functions of a brand; e.g. advertising, marketing, creating trust, identity o What is effective branding? Strong image, convincing people to purchase, shared values with customers, offering a solution to a problem.
                                  o The impact for procurement and supply chain isn't explained in the study guide so tailor this however you like. The best thing to do would be to think about some companies where branding is important, such as luxury goods, cars, or the brand is synonymous with a particular aspect such as Apple being associated with innovative technology. From there you could argue the importance of selecting the right suppliers to work with in order to keep up the brand image. Another example could be an ethical company needing to ensure their supply chain is 'clean', so as not to damage their branding. Possibilities are endless with this one.
                                  Example Essay
                                  In the contemporary business landscape, the significance of branding extends far beyond marketing and consumer perception. In procurement and supply operations, an organization's brand plays a pivotal role in shaping relationships with suppliers, determining the quality of goods and services that are procured, and influencing overall supply chain efficiency. This essay delves into the importance of branding in procurement and supply, exploring how a strong brand image can drive competitive advantage, foster trust and collaboration, and impact an organization's bottom line.
                                  Building Competitive Advantage Through Brand Reputation:
                                  The reputation of an organization's brand is a key determinant in attracting and retaining high-quality suppliers. A strong brand often correlates with financial stability, market presence, and business ethics, making such organizations more appealing to work with. This advantage is critical in procurement as it can lead to preferential treatment, such as priority access to scarce resources, better payment terms, and opportunities to collaborate on innovative products. For example, a well-regarded technology company might receive earlyaccess to cutting-edge components from suppliers eager to be associated with a market leader.
                                  Enhancing Supplier Relationships and Negotiations:
                                  Branding extends into the realms of trust and reliability, essential components in building long-term relationships with suppliers. A well-respected brand often implies a history of fair dealings, prompt payments, and mutual respect, which can make suppliers more willing to negotiate favourable terms. This trust can be particularly vital in times of supply chain disruptions or market volatility. Suppliers are more likely to extend credit or expedite orders for trusted partners, which can be invaluable for maintaining uninterrupted operations.
                                  Influencing Quality and Sustainability Standards:
                                  An organization's brand also communicates its commitment to quality and sustainability, which are increasingly crucial in procurement decisions. Suppliers aligning with brands that emphasize high-quality standards are often more diligent in maintaining these standards in their products and services. Additionally, a strong brand committed to sustainability can drive supply chain practices that align with environmental and social governance (ESG) principles. This commitment can lead to long-term cost savings, risk mitigation, and enhanced brand loyalty among environmentally conscious consumers.
                                  Brand Image and Consumer Perception:
                                  The procurement function directly impacts the final product quality, which in turn affects consumer perception of the brand. An organization's ability to procure high-quality, ethically sourced materials can significantly enhance its brand image and appeal to a broader customer base. For instance, a fashion brand's commitment to ethical sourcing and procurement of sustainable materials can bolster its image as an environmentally responsible brand, appealing to a growing demographic of eco-conscious consumers. The reverse is also true, brands associated with child or forced labour where this is found to be in their supply chains can suffer from loss of customers, revenue and reputation as well as potentially even legal consequences.
                                  Internal Branding and Employee Engagement in Procurement:
                                  Internal branding, the way an organization's values and culture are perceived by its employees, plays a crucial role in procurement. Employees who are proud of their organization's brand are more likely to engage deeply with their work, leading to better performance in procurement roles. This engagement can result in more innovative procurement strategies, improved vendor management, and a greater focus on aligning procurement practices with the organization's overall strategic goals.
                                  Conclusion:
                                  The role of an organization's branding in procurement and supply operations is deeply impactful. A strong brand can create competitive advantages, foster better supplier relationships, influence quality and sustainability standards, enhance consumer perception, and drive employee engagement. In the modern business world, where supply chains are complex and consumer expectations are high, branding is not just a marketing tool but a strategic asset in procurement and supply operations. Organizations that recognize and leverage the power of their brand within these operations are poised to achieve greater efficiency, sustainability, and overall success.
                                  Tutor Notes
                                  - This is a really random section of the study guide and doesn't really relate to the rest of the content. Branding comes up on p.226 - 228. It therefore can come up as a question, but because it's such as small part of the syllabus, don't focus too much effort on this subject.
                                  - If you remember one line from this topic it's this: "branding is not just a marketing tool but a strategic asset in procurement and supply operations"
                                  - This type of question could come up as a scenario / case study. E.g. How does the branding of X Company impact upon their supply chain.


                                  NEW QUESTION # 47
                                  Explain each of the following FIVE electronic systems and how
                                  they can contribute to an effective procurement process. (25
                                  marks)
                                  (i) e-requisitioning
                                  (ii) e-catalogues
                                  (iii) e.ordering
                                  (iv) e-sourcing
                                  (v) e-payment

                                  Answer:

                                  Explanation:
                                  See the solution in Explanation part below
                                  Explanation:
                                  Electronic procurement systems leverage technology to improve efficiency, transparency, and control in procurement processes. Each system has distinct functionalities that contribute to effective procurement. Below is an explanation of each system and its contribution:
                                  (i) E-Requisitioning
                                  E-requisitioning is the electronic process of submitting purchase requests within an organization, replacing traditional paper-based requisition forms. Users can raise requisitions online, detailing the goods or services needed.
                                  Contribution to Procurement Effectiveness:
                                  E-requisitioning accelerates the request process, reduces errors, and ensures standardization of dat a. It enables automatic routing for approvals, enforcing procurement policies and budget controls. This reduces processing time and improves transparency, allowing better tracking and auditability of requests.
                                  Example:
                                  An employee submits an electronic requisition which is automatically routed to managers for approval, ensuring compliance and faster processing.
                                  (ii) E-Catalogues
                                  E-catalogues are digital product listings maintained by suppliers or procurement departments. They provide a searchable and standardized database of goods and services available for purchase, often with pricing and technical details.
                                  Contribution to Procurement Effectiveness:
                                  E-catalogues simplify ordering by giving users easy access to approved products, reducing the need for manual sourcing. They help control spending by limiting choices to pre-approved items and negotiated prices, supporting compliance and reducing maverick spending. The electronic format improves accuracy in ordering and reduces processing time.
                                  Example:
                                  Procurement users select products directly from a supplier's e-catalogue integrated into the procurement system, ensuring correct specifications and pricing.
                                  (iii) E-Ordering
                                  E-ordering refers to the electronic placement of purchase orders via procurement software or online platforms. It replaces manual order creation and transmission methods.
                                  Contribution to Procurement Effectiveness:
                                  E-ordering increases speed and accuracy of orders, reduces administrative costs, and provides real-time order status tracking. It minimizes errors caused by manual entry, improves communication with suppliers, and supports automatic matching of orders with invoices for smoother payment processes.
                                  Example:
                                  Once a requisition is approved, the system generates an electronic purchase order sent directly to the supplier, reducing lead times.
                                  (iv) E-Sourcing
                                  E-sourcing is the electronic process of identifying, evaluating, and selecting suppliers using online tools such as auctions, tendering portals, and supplier databases.
                                  Contribution to Procurement Effectiveness:
                                  E-sourcing enhances transparency, widens supplier competition, and accelerates the tendering process. It reduces paperwork and streamlines supplier evaluation through standardized online submissions. Electronic auctions can drive competitive pricing and better contract terms. It also enables better documentation and audit trails.
                                  Example:
                                  An organization uses an e-sourcing platform to conduct a reverse auction, encouraging suppliers to offer their best prices in real time.
                                  (v) E-Payment
                                  E-payment systems facilitate electronic transfer of funds to suppliers, including methods such as electronic funds transfer (EFT), automated clearing house (ACH) payments, or procurement card payments.
                                  Contribution to Procurement Effectiveness:
                                  E-payment increases the efficiency and security of supplier payments, reduces errors, and speeds up transaction processing. It strengthens supplier relationships through timely payments and reduces administrative overhead and costs associated with manual cheque processing. Automated payments also support better cash flow management and financial control.
                                  Example:
                                  Invoices matched and approved in the procurement system are paid automatically through an integrated e-payment platform, ensuring prompt settlement.
                                  Conclusion:
                                  The integration of these five electronic procurement systems - e-requisitioning, e-catalogues, e-ordering, e-sourcing, and e-payment - delivers significant improvements in procurement efficiency, control, and transparency. Together, they streamline processes, reduce costs, enhance compliance, and improve supplier collaboration, making the procurement function more strategic and value-driven.


                                  NEW QUESTION # 48
                                  What is 'supply chain management'? Outline the drivers, advantages and disadvantages of using this approach within the Procurement Department of an organisation (25 points)

                                  Answer:

                                  Explanation:
                                  See the solution in Explanation part below
                                  Explanation:
                                  How to approach the question
                                  - There are 4 main components to this question that you will have to answer, so my advice is to first write down subheadings for your essay so you don't miss any out: definition of supply chain management, drivers, advantages and disadvantages
                                  - The question also brings up 2 concepts - supply chain management and tiered supply chains, it would be good to include a definition of both of these.
                                  - Because of the number of things you'll have to write, you don't need to go into lots of detail - one paragraph per section will be enough.
                                  Proposed Essay Structure
                                  Intro - what is supply chain management and what is a tiered supply chain P1 - drivers P2 - advantages P3 - disadvantages Conclusion - supply chains are complex due to globalisation Essay Ideas:
                                  - Definition of supply chain management = Making something available in response to a buyer's requirements. The transformation of goods from raw material into an end product (input > conversion > output)
                                  - Drivers = Cost, Time/ Speed, Reliability, Responsiveness, Transparency, Globalisation
                                  - Advantages = reduced costs by elimination of waste, improved responsiveness to customer requirements, joint-ventures with supply partners leading to innovations, tech sharing, improved communication leads to faster lead times for product development
                                  - Disadvantages = needs considerable investment and internal support, closer relationships may be risky (IP, loss of control), issues in fairly distributing gains and risks (you don't need to talk about all of these- pick 1 or 2 you feel you know the best and focus on that) Example Essay Supply Chain Management (SCM) is the arrangement of processes involved in the production and distribution of goods / services - from the origin to the end consumer. In simple terms, it's taking a raw product and transforming it into an end product that a consumer would purchase. For example taking a potato from a farmer, giving it to a manufacturer to make into chips and sending these to retailers to be sold. SCM relies on close relationships between the parties in the supply chain and adds value to the product at every stage. A Tiered Supply Chain is a specific configuration within SCM that involves multiple levels of suppliers and sub-suppliers. A buyer will work with a small amount of Tier 1 suppliers who will in turn work with their own suppliers. In a tiered system there can be many, many layers of suppliers who all ultimately work towards creating the same product. This essay aims to delve into the drivers, advantages, and disadvantages associated with implementing a complex supply chain, such as the Tiered Supply Chain model.
                                  The main drivers of using a tiered supply chain are often rooted in the pursuit of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility. By consolidating suppliers into distinct tiers, organizations can streamline their management processes, reduce complexity, and enhance overall supply chain performance. Additionally, tiered supply chains are often employed in response to the global nature of modern business, accommodating the need to source materials and components from various regions while maintaining a manageable and responsive supply network.
                                  One of the advantages of a Tiered Supply Chain is the streamlined management of suppliers. In this model, there are fewer direct suppliers to oversee, simplifying the coordination and communication processes. This can lead to increased efficiency and responsiveness as organizations deal with a smaller, more manageable pool of suppliers. The consolidation of suppliers in a tiered system may also result in potential cost savings and improved collaboration with a select group of trusted partners.
                                  However, the complexity of a Tiered Supply Chain brings disadvantages. One significant drawback is reduced visibility. As the supply chain extends across multiple tiers, organizations may struggle to have a comprehensive view of the entire process. This lack of visibility can lead to challenges in tracking and responding to potential disruptions. Moreover, ethical risks emerge when companies have limited oversight over lower-tier suppliers, potentially exposing organizations to issues such as labour exploitation, environmental concerns, or violations of ethical standards.
                                  In conclusion, supply chain management has evolved into a complex discipline due to the forces of globalization and consumer demands for speed and quality. The Tiered Supply Chain model, driven by these factors, presents both advantages and disadvantages. While managing fewer suppliers can enhance efficiency, the trade-off includes diminished visibility and increased ethical risks. Organizations must carefully evaluate the specific needs of their operations and weigh the benefits against the challenges when deciding whether to adopt a Tiered Supply Chain. In this intricate landscape, the ability to balance complexity and efficiency becomes paramount for sustained success in the global marketplace.
                                  Tutor Notes
                                  - Definition of supply chain management is from p.5
                                  - Drivers, advantages and disadvantages p.9
                                  - This topic used to be much more in depth in the old syllabus and has been drastically simplified in the new study guide. The guide is actually quite light on this topic stating simply that "globalisation and localisation are both drivers of using supply chain tiering". If you don't work in manufacturing, or an industry that uses supply chain tiering, this concept may be a bit alien to you and I'd recommend doing a little extra research. The best example of supply chain tiering is in car manufacturing- and that would be a good example to use in an essay. Some additional links for research:
                                  - Supplier Tiers: What's The Difference Between Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 | PLANERGY Software
                                  - Sustainable Sourcing - Definition, Examples, Benefits & Best Practices (brightest.io)
                                  - https://youtu.be/fs1rDgBQy1M


                                  NEW QUESTION # 49
                                  Describe 3 stages of the sourcing cycle that occur in the post-contract award stage (25 marks)

                                  Answer:

                                  Explanation:
                                  See the solution in Explanation part below
                                  Explanation:
                                  How to approach the question
                                  Your answer should provide details on 3 of the following:
                                  - Contract Award and Implementation
                                  - Warehouse Logistics
                                  - Contract performance and Improvement
                                  - Supplier Relationship Management
                                  - Asset Management
                                  Because the question is only asking for 3 stages, you're going to have to go much more into detail for each stage, giving lots of information about why each stage is important and examples. You could consider thinking of an example procurement you have done recently and explaining the stages for that. Or you could take a hypothetical procurement too. Either will get you the same marks. Pick the three that you can write the most about.
                                  Essay Plan
                                  Introduction - explain that sourcing of goods and the role of Procurement doesn't end once a contract is signed. There is ongoing management and processes which must be carried out to ensure success.
                                  Paragraph 1 - Contract Performance and Improvement
                                  * This is about ensuring contract obligations are fulfilled. Contract administration includes P2P procedures, database management, budgeting / costs monitoring, reporting and dispute resolution
                                  * Procurement's role may be in managing contract performance through the use of SLAs and / or KPIs. This can be done via reporting, using a Supplier Scorecard and meeting regularly to discuss.
                                  * It's important KPIs are measured and that there are consequences for failing to meet them. An example of consequences could be using a Performance Improvement Plan.
                                  * Contract Management also includes updating the contract where required - e.g. issuing variations to contract and updating the change control log
                                  * Another important aspect of this is ensuring the costs remain within scope of the budget
                                  * Contract performance can be compared if you have several suppliers delivering the same goods- could use a Factor Rating Method.
                                  * Performance could be measured against several criteria such as on time deliveries, response time of supplier, number of complaints.
                                  Paragraph 2 - Supplier Relationship Management
                                  * There is a difference between managing the contract and managing the supplier relationship. It's possible to have excellent contract performance and a terrible relationship. However, the two are generally linked- where there is a good relationship, the contract often performs well.
                                  * The supplier management approach depends on where the relationship falls on the relationship spectrum (e.g. transactional or collaborative)
                                  * This involves; maintaining regular contact with the supplier, motivating the supplier, working collaboratively with them (e.g. on performance issues or resolving any disputes)
                                  * Incentivising the supplier leads to collaboration and mutual support
                                  * To assess or rank suppliers you could use a vendor rating method or supplier evaluation forms
                                  * Supplier relationship management may involve investing in the supplier- e.g. through training or technology sharing Paragraph 3 - Asset Management
                                  * Includes creating a post contract 'lessons-learned'
                                  * Assessments should be carried out to determine if business requirements have changed, whether the agreement is still required and fit for purpose, what can be learnt from the process and how improvements can be incorporated next time.
                                  * This is the final stage of the Procurement Cycle and takes us back to the start of cycle, which begins again when the item needs to be reprocured
                                  * Whole life costing should be considered at this stage: this is the total cost of ownership over the life of an asset. The concept is also known as life-cycle cost (LCC) or lifetime cost, and is commonly referred to as "cradle to grave" or "womb to tomb" costs.
                                  * Generally used on large purchases such as machinery and vehicles. Full Asset Management may not necessary for direct cost items such as raw materials incorporated into final goods.
                                  * Considerations may include; costs of running the asset, how long it will perform, insurance, maintenance, opportunity costs, disposing of the asset.
                                  * Also consider environmental and social impacts of the procurement.
                                  Conclusion - it is important that procurement are involved at every stage of the cycle, not just in the pre-award stages. Procurement can add value at every stage.
                                  Tutor Notes
                                  - Depending on the examples you choose to use, you could talk about how the type of item procured could impact on the different stages. For example, high risk purchases may require more contract management than low risk purchases, and capital expenditure items such as new machinery may require more attention to the Asset Management stage.
                                  - You could also think about how procurement adds value at each of the stages.
                                  - Study guide p. 79


                                  NEW QUESTION # 50
                                  ......

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