The Procurement Software Podcast

In this episode of The Procurement Software Podcast, host James Meads delves into the game-changing benefits of intake and process orchestration solutions for procurement teams.

James highlights how these solutions improve supplier management, compliance, and overall efficiency while freeing procurement teams to focus on strategic decisions.

Tune in for valuable insights to modernise and future-proof your procurement processes.

Can Intake and Process Orchestration eat S2P suites?

In this episode, we explore the growing impact of intake and process orchestration solutions on modern procurement. As traditional source-to-pay (S2P) systems face limitations in flexibility and user experience, organisations are turning to these innovative tools to create more efficient and adaptable procurement processes.

We’ll discuss how these solutions allow for custom workflow design without the need for extensive coding, making them perfect for businesses with diverse or evolving procurement needs. With seamless integration into existing systems and applications—such as supplier quality and ESG tools—intake and process orchestration ensures smoother communication and improved collaboration across departments.

The episode also highlights the automation potential of these solutions, reducing manual tasks and freeing up procurement teams to focus on more strategic work. We’ll explain how automation capabilities extend beyond simple processes, enhancing decision-making and driving overall procurement effectiveness.

Join us to learn how intake and process orchestration solutions are setting new standards for procurement technology, offering adaptability, user-centric design, and greater transparency across the entire procurement journey.

Timestamps:

[00:01:41] Intake in procurement processes.

[00:05:58] Process orchestration in procurement.

[00:10:23] Intake and process orchestration solutions.

[00:16:12] Future of procurement technology.

[00:16:44] Market share of sourcing solutions.

And that wraps up another episode of The Procurement Software Podcast!

Thanks again for listening, and do please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or rate us on Spotify. Every one helps!

We'll be back at the same time next week, so see you there.

If you want to learn more about Procurement Software, check out the useful links below.

Stay in touch!

1. Download our Tech Map for Enterprise
2. Download our Tech Map for Mid-Market
3. Download our Tech Map for SMEs
4. Find your perfect procurement tech solution in our Software Finder app
5. Sign up for the Procurement Software Newsletter
6. Book an Intro Call and let’s talk all things Digital Procurement!
7. Connect with James on LinkedIn

In this episode of The Procurement Software Podcast, host James welcomes Shaun Syvertsen, CEO of Convergent IS, to discuss how organisations can enhance their procurement processes by improving the user experience of SAP.

They delve into the complexities of the system and share insights on how to leverage procurement technology to simplify the intake-to-procure process for companies who use SAP as their ERP.

Tune in to discover practical strategies and tools that can help your organisation navigate the evolving landscape of procurement software, especially tailored for the mid-market.

How to make SAP more user-friendly on the front end

This episode dives into the importance of having a clear procurement strategy before selecting any technology. Sean emphasises the need for clarity in your goals, ensuring alignment between technology solutions and your organisation’s needs.

Key takeaways include:

Defining Your Strategy: Be clear on your procurement approach before exploring technology options.

Aligning with Goals: Make sure the chosen tools align with your organisation’s objectives to avoid adoption gaps.

User Adoption: Sean discusses how user-friendly technology is crucial for ensuring employees engage with the system rather than bypass it.

Expert Guidance: Investing in expert advice early on can save both time and resources by selecting the right technology from the start.

Tune in to learn how a well-defined strategy can lead to successful procurement technology investments and drive long-term organisational success.

Timestamps:

[00:02:10] SAP user experience enhancement

[00:05:14] Know your why before your what

[00:10:02] Integration with SAP systems

[00:12:30] Orchestration in procurement systems

[00:17:59] User adoption and process design

[00:20:16] Procurement transparency and efficiency

[00:23:11] Orchestration solutions in procurement

[00:27:29] Preventing SaaS sprawl in organisations

[00:32:40] Reducing time to value with AI

And that wraps up another episode of The Procurement Software Podcast!

Thanks again for listening, and do please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or rate us on Spotify. Every one helps!

We'll be back at the same time next week, so see you there.

If you want to learn more about Procurement Software, check out the useful links below.

 

Stay in touch!

Grab your ticket to ProcureCon EU in Barcelona with 10% off!

1. Connect with Shaun Syvertsen on LinkedIn
2. Check out ConvergentIS
3. Download our Tech Map for Enterprise
4. Download our Tech Map for Mid-Market
5. Download our Tech Map for SMEs
6. Find your perfect procurement tech solution in our Software Finder app
7. Sign up for the Procurement Software Newsletter
8. Book an Intro Call and let’s talk all things Digital Procurement!
9. Connect with James on LinkedIn

In this week's episode of The Procurement Software Podcast, host James Meads dives into the power of our Tech Maps and how they can simplify your search for the right procurement technology.

Whether you're part of a small business, mid-market company, or a large enterprise, Tech Maps from ProcurementSoftware.site offer a tailored approach to finding the technology that best fits your needs.

Tune in to learn how to leverage this valuable tool and explore the resources available to support your digital procurement journey.

Procurement Tech Maps: SME, Mid-Market and Enterprise

This week, we explore how Tech Maps can be a vital tool in navigating the complex procurement technology landscape. Designed to offer a clear overview of various market players, TechMaps help procurement professionals identify solutions that best fit their needs, without the noise of vendor endorsements or biases.

We discuss how these maps categorise solutions by target market—whether SMEs, mid-market, or large enterprises—providing a tailored approach to finding the right tools. Beyond just listing companies, the Tech Maps offer a snapshot of the procurement tech ecosystem, helping you on the start of your journey towards making informed decisions.

Additionally, the episode highlights the resources available to dive deeper, from a free software database to personalised consultations and detailed research options. By utilising Tech Maps and these supporting tools, organisations can confidently navigate their digital procurement journey.

Tune in to discover how our Tech Maps can streamline your search for the perfect procurement technology solutions, tailored to your specific needs.

[00:01:42] What should our Tech Maps be used for?

[00:06:33] Procurement tech for different businesses.

[00:09:02] Spend analytics in tech maps.

[00:15:07] Understanding the procurement tech market.

[00:17:28] Ways to Find Software Solutions.

And that wraps up another episode of The Procurement Software Podcast!

Thanks again for listening, and do please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or rate us on Spotify. Every one helps!

We'll be back at the same time next week, so see you there.

If you want to learn more about Procurement Software, check out the useful links below.

 

Download our Tech Map for Enterprise

Download our Tech Map for Mid-Market

Download our Tech Map for SMEs

Find your perfect procurement tech solution in our Software Finder app

Sign up for the Procurement Software Newsletter

Book an Intro Call and let’s talk all things Digital Procurement!

Connect with James on LinkedIn

 

 

This episode of The Procurement Software Podcast delves into why big consultancies often partner with legacy source-to-pay suites.

Host James Meads explains how their corporate mindset and focus on large organisations can limit their understanding of the broader digital procurement market. Also, how conflicts of interest can result in big consultancies shilling legacy software.

Tune in to explore how to avoid falling for the trap of thinking the big consultancy is your friend when it comes to advisory on procurement software choices.

This week, we delve into how a narrow focus on large corporate solutions drive big consultancies to favour established software players, often at the expense of more suitable options for small and mid-sized businesses.

Financial incentives are also a key factor, with consultancies earning commissions on software sales and profiting from the complex, time-consuming implementation processes.

These practices, however, raise significant ethical concerns.

The episode sheds light on the conflicts of interest that arise when consultancies receive commissions, while simultaneously billing clients for their services. We contrast this with Procurementsoftware.site's commitment to providing impartial, client-focused advice, free from any conflict of interest from software providers.

Tune in to gain insights into how these dynamics shape the procurement technology landscape and why choosing an unbiased advisor is essential for making the best decisions for your organisation.

[00:00:38] - Why Big Consultancies Partner with Legacy Source-to-Pay Suites

[00:01:21] - Corporate Mentality and Market Knowledge

[00:02:44] - Influence of Research Houses

[00:04:00] - Affiliate and Partner Commissions

[00:05:04] - Implementation and Business Model of Big Consultancies

[00:06:39] - Complexity and Configuration of Legacy Software

[00:08:04] - Profit Margins in Implementation Projects

[00:09:08] - Ongoing Consultancy Needs and Customisation

[00:10:13] - Lack of Innovation and Market Knowledge

[00:11:06] - Best of Breed Solutions vs. Legacy Suites

[00:11:49] - Impartial Advice and Conflict of Interest

And that wraps up another episode of The Procurement Software Podcast!

Thanks again for listening, and do please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or rate us on Spotify. Every one helps!

We'll be back at the same time next week, so see you there.

If you want to learn more about Procurement Software, check out the useful links below.

 

Download our Tech Map for Enterprise

Download our Tech Map for Mid-Market

Download our Tech Map for SMEs

Find your perfect procurement tech solution in our Software Finder app

Sign up for the Procurement Software Newsletter

Book an Intro Call and let’s talk all things Digital Procurement!

Connect with James on LinkedIn

This episode of The Procurement Software Podcast tackles the often-overlooked challenge of securing a budget for procurement technologies.

Host James Meads provides actionable strategies to overcome this hurdle, emphasising the importance of starting small with pilot studies and opting for affordable, user-based software solutions.

He also explores how procurement professionals can work smarter by reallocating existing budgets. Doing so can clearly demonstrate ROI to gain buy-in from financial decision-makers for larger investments.

Tune in to discover how to successfully advocate for procurement tech investments and drive innovation within your organisation.

Start Small, Prove the ROI, then Build on Success

James delves into this question, discussing the common obstacles procurement teams face due to a lack of dedicated software budgets and the high ROI expectations from CFOs.

Key strategies include launching pilot studies in specific areas, such as a single manufacturing site or country office. Then, leveraging affordable software options like entry level procure-to-pay platforms, SRM tools like Canopy and LUPR, contract management systems like Concord, and e-sourcing platforms such as Market Dojo.

James stresses the importance of taking initiative by reallocating budgets from travel, training, or consultancy to fund these projects. Proving the concept and generating positive feedback can create momentum, leading to wider technology adoption within the organisation.

Tune in for practical insights and strategies to navigate procurement’s budget challenges and drive digital transformation effectively.

[00:01:31] - The Challenge: Lack of Procurement Software Budget

[00:03:07] - Understanding CFOs and ROI

[00:04:23] - Starting Small with Pilot Studies

[00:06:19] - Building Internal Support and Testimonials

[00:08:07] - Quantifying Productivity and Opportunity Costs

[00:10:04] - Carving Out Your Own Budget

[00:10:25] - Affordable Procurement Software Examples

And that wraps up another episode of The Procurement Software Podcast!

Thanks again for listening, and do please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or rate us on Spotify. Every one helps!

We'll be back at the same time next week, so see you there.

If you want to learn more about Procurement Software, check out the useful links below.

 

Download our Tech Map for Enterprise

Download our Tech Map for Mid-Market

Download our Tech Map for SMEs

Find your perfect procurement tech solution in our Software Finder app

Sign up for the Procurement Software Newsletter

Book an Intro Call and let’s talk all things Digital Procurement!

Connect with James on LinkedIn

This episode of The Procurement Software Podcast delves into the impact of technology and AI on category manager roles in procurement.

Host James Meads explores how advancements in tech can potentially change the landscape of procurement and discusses specific areas like spend analytics that can benefit from AI applications.

Tune in to learn more about the evolving role of category managers in the era of technological advancements.

In this episode, we explore how AI and technology are transforming the role of category managers in procurement. AI can automate many tactical tasks, such as spend analytics, sourcing, supplier management, and contract reviews, reducing the operational workload. This automation enables category managers to focus on more strategic activities, enhancing their ability to deliver value to the organisation.

Despite the efficiency AI brings, it cannot replace the essential soft skills required for effective supplier management and stakeholder engagement. The episode underscores that human emotional intelligence and communication skills remain crucial. Category managers excel in fostering relationships, developing category strategies, and crafting compelling narratives around data to engage stakeholders.

Tune in to learn how AI empowers category managers to shift from routine tasks to high-impact activities, driving strategic decision-making and value creation within organisations.

[00:02:24] AI in sourcing applications

[00:04:43] Contract Management AI Technology

[00:11:31] The rise of prompt engineering

[00:15:14] AI limitations and soft skills

[00:17:15] AI in procurement advancements

And that wraps up another episode of The Procurement Software Podcast!

Thanks again for listening, and do please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or rate us on Spotify. Every one helps!

We'll be back at the same time next week, so see you there.

If you want to learn more about Procurement Software, check out the useful links below.

 

Download our Tech Map for Enterprise

Download our Tech Map for Mid-Market

Download our Tech Map for SMEs

Find your perfect procurement tech solution in our Software Finder app

Sign up for the Procurement Software Newsletter

Book an Intro Call and let’s talk all things Digital Procurement!

Connect with James on LinkedIn

This week on The Procurement Software Podcast, host James Meads delves into some unique technology needs that direct procurement teams are often facing.

James explores how specialised tech stacks, including advanced inventory management systems, supplier relationship tools, and risk mitigation software, can address the distinct challenges faced by direct procurement teams.

Tune in to uncover how these cutting-edge technologies enhance efficiency, mitigate risks, and foster stronger supplier relationships, making sophisticated procurement solutions accessible to direct procurement teams of all sizes.

Does Direct Spend Need Its Own Tech Stack?

In this episode, we delve into the unique requirements of direct procurement and why it necessitates a specialised tech stack.

Inventory Management: We discuss the importance of handling raw materials and components, highlighting the need for advanced inventory systems and effective BOM spend management.

Supplier Relationship Management (SRM): Emphasising the complexities of supplier relationships in direct procurement, we explore advanced SRM tools that ensure quality control, timely delivery, and compliance with production standards.

Risk Management: We look at how predictive analytics and robust risk mitigation tools are essential for identifying and addressing potential supply chain disruptions.

Niche Category Specific Tools: Certain sub-categories and areas of spend require tailor-made solutions for their nuances. We explore some concrete examples.

This episode underscores the need for tailored technology solutions in direct procurement to enhance efficiency, mitigate risks, and strengthen supplier relationships.

[00:03:06] - Direct Spend vs. Indirect Spend Tech Stack

[00:05:05] - Key Features of Direct Spend Platforms

[00:07:14] - Five Key Areas Where Tech Can Make a Difference in Direct Spend

[00:08:18] - Strategic Sourcing and Cost Management

[00:12:00] - Supply Chain and Operations Planning

[00:14:43] - Quality, Third Party Risk Management, and Sustainability

[00:18:07] - Niche Category Specific Tools

[00:20:48] - Conclusion: Does Direct Procurement Need Its Own Tech Stack?

And that wraps up another episode of The Procurement Software Podcast!

Thanks again for listening, and do please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or rate us on Spotify. Every one helps!

We'll be back at the same time next week, so see you there.

If you want to learn more about Procurement Software, check out the useful links below.

 

Download our Tech Map for Enterprise

Download our Tech Map for Mid-Market

Download our Tech Map for SMEs

Find your perfect procurement tech solution in our Software Finder app

Sign up for the Procurement Software Newsletter

Book an Intro Call and let’s talk all things Digital Procurement!

Connect with James on LinkedIn

This week on The Procurement Software Podcast, host James Meads sits down with Jonathan O'Brien, Founder and CEO of Positive Purchasing.

The conversation explores the transformative influence of technology on procurement training and learning.

Jonathan, renowned for his podcast, The Procurement Show, as well as being a serial author of procurement textbooks, brings a polished, radio-inspired approach to the conversation.

Join us for an insightful discussion on how technology is transforming procurement training.

In this episode, Jonathan discusses the transition from traditional classroom training to a blend of online and classroom-based learning, a shift accelerated by the pandemic.

He highlights the significance of managing individual learning journeys using various methods, including e-learning, instructor-led sessions, and on-the-job practice. The conversation also delves into how AI can personalise training, create tailored learning plans, and conduct precise skill assessments.

Jonathan emphasises that embracing technology in training is essential for enhancing accessibility and effectiveness in procurement education.

Overall, this episode underscores the gradual yet impactful shift towards a technology-enabled, blended approach in procurement training, aiming to make learning more accessible and effective.

[00:03:09] Technology in training and development.

[00:05:48] The future of e-learning.

[00:09:44] Continuous learning opportunities.

[00:13:21] Professional development and initiative.

[00:15:31] Tech in Emerging Markets.

[00:19:31] Building a comprehensive learning platform.

[00:21:42] The role of AI.

[00:25:03] Evolution of tech in procurement.

And that wraps up another episode of The Procurement Software Podcast!

Thanks to Jonathan for sharing his insights with us today, and thank you again for listening. We'll be back at the same time next week, so see you there.

If you want to learn more about Jonathan, Positive Purchasing, or Procurement Software, check out the useful links below.

Connect with Jonathan O'Brien on LinkedIn

Check out Positive Purchasing

Download our Tech Map for Enterprise

Download our Tech Map for Mid-Market

Download our Tech Map for SMEs

Find your perfect procurement tech solution in our Software Finder app

Sign up for the Procurement Software Newsletter

Book an Intro Call and let’s talk all things Digital Procurement!

Connect with James on LinkedIn

This week on The Procurement Software Podcast, host James Meads dives into the world of entrepreneurial procurement.

Tune in to discover how this approach encourages innovation, efficiency, and greater value delivery, transforming the procurement function into a strategic driver within organisations.

In this episode, we explore adopting an entrepreneurial mindset in procurement, focusing on prioritising results over rigid processes. By thinking like a business owner, procurement professionals can deliver greater value to their organisations.

Traditionally, procurement has emphasised set procedures, often at the expense of efficiency and agility. An entrepreneurial approach encourages breaking free from these constraints, driving innovation, expediting decisions, and adapting quickly.

James highlights how re-allocating budgets from FTE salaries to technology can enable teams to invest in tools that automate tasks and enhance efficiency. With this approach, it can be done even if you don't have a specific software budget authorised by the CFO. This shift can lead to significant cost savings and more efficient resource utilisation.

Another key concept is the minimum viable product (MVP) approach, inspired by tech startups. By identifying the bare essential processes needed for compliance, procurement teams can streamline operations, reduce bureaucracy, and foster creativity and agility.

Overall, this entrepreneurial mindset can drive innovation, deliver value, and contribute to organisational success.

[00:02:26] - The Challenge of Entrepreneurial Procurement

[00:03:10] - Technocratic vs. Entrepreneurial Mindset

[00:04:47] - Thinking Like a Business Owner

[00:05:30] - Budgeting with an Entrepreneurial Mindset

[00:07:05] - Flexible Staffing Strategies

[00:08:43] - Investing in Technology Over Headcount

[00:09:57] - Retaining Star Performers

[00:11:09] - Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

[00:15:04] - Business Partnering Mindset

[00:16:10] - Importance of Data in Procurement

And that wraps up another episode of The Procurement Software Podcast!

Thanks again for listening, and do please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or rate us on Spotify. Every one helps!

We'll be back at the same time next week, so see you there.

If you want to learn more about Procurement Software, check out the useful links below.

 

Download our Tech Map for Enterprise

Download our Tech Map for Mid-Market

Download our Tech Map for SMEs

Find your perfect procurement tech solution in our Software Finder app

Sign up for the Procurement Software Newsletter

Book an Intro Call and let’s talk all things Digital Procurement!

Connect with James on LinkedIn

In this episode of the Procurement Software Podcast, we welcome back Andrew Daly, a partner at specialist recruitment firm Edbury Daley.

Andrew previously joined us on Episode 11 back in May to discuss digital skills. Today, we delve into how procurement professionals can transition into careers in procurement technology.

Many procurement pros feel burnt out. So, let's explore how you can leverage your skills in a less stressful, and probably more rewarding role within the procurement tech space.

Andrew emphasises the importance of educating oneself about digital tools and becoming a "super user" to stand out to potential employers. He also highlights the value of transferable skills such as relationship management, commercial acumen, and an entrepreneurial mindset.

We discuss the types of roles that might suit different personality traits, from customer success and sales to product management and implementation. Andrew notes that while younger professionals in their late 20s to early 30s might find it easier to make this transition, mindset and adaptability are crucial at any age.

We also touch on the potential risks and rewards of joining a startup versus a more established company. Andrew advises doing thorough due diligence on any prospective employer, especially in terms of leadership credibility and company culture.

Episode Timestamps

00:02:17 - Andrew Daly's Background and Expertise

00:03:38 - Core Transferable Skills for Procurement Tech

00:06:15 - Entrepreneurial Skills and Side Hustles

00:08:03 - Personality Traits for Sales and Customer Success Roles

00:09:04 - Personality Traits and Role Suitability

00:10:14 - Modern Sales Skills and Processes

00:11:39 - Types of Procurement Professionals

00:13:34 - Roles for Process and Compliance-Driven Individuals

00:14:56 - Ideal Career Transition Timing

00:17:01 - Senior Procurement Leaders Transitioning to Advisory Roles

00:17:34 - Watchouts When Joining a Procurement Tech Company

00:19:37 - Career Progression in Startups vs. Large Corporates

00:21:04 - Wearing Multiple Hats in Startups

00:23:33 - Learning from Mistakes

 

To wrap up, we have a quick-fire round where Andrew shares his love for Ibiza and his guilty pleasure of staying out late in nightclubs. For those interested in learning more or seeking career advice, Andrew recommends connecting on LinkedIn or checking out the Edbury Daley YouTube channel.

If you're considering a move into procurement tech, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice to help you navigate the transition.

 

Stay in Touch

Connect with Andrew Daley on LinkedIn

Visit EdburyDaley's website

EdburyDaley Youtube Channel

Grab our FREE 20 Minute Digital Procurement 101 Course

Download our Tech Map for Enterprise

Download our Tech Map for Mid-Market

Download our Tech Map for SMEs

Find your perfect procurement tech solution in our Software Finder app

Sign up for the Procurement Software Newsletter

Book an Intro Call and let’s talk all things Digital Procurement!

Connect with James on LinkedIn