Written by Marijn Overvest | Reviewed by Sjoerd Goedhart
Fact Checked by Ruud Emonds | Our editorial policy
Types of Procurement — The Ultimate Guide of 2024
What are the types of procurement?
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The four types of procurement are direct, indirect, goods, and services procurement.
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The type of procurement you will choose depends on the nature of your business.
- People, processes, and documents are all essential for procurement operations.
Types of Procurement is a fundamental concept every procurement professional must master. In this article, we’ll take you through the key types of procurement to help you build a solid understanding of the basics.
By the end, you’ll have a clearer view of how different procurement types function, ensuring you’re well-equipped to navigate the complexities of this field. So, let’s get started and dive into the various types of procurement.
Once you finish this article, you will have a deeper understanding of the different types of procurement. This will allow you to master the basics of procurement which will surely help you in your journey in this field. So without any delay, let us begin by learning its different types.
To make your procurement process more efficient, I have created a free-to-download editable procurement process: 7 steps template. It’s a PowerPoint file, together with an Excel file, that can help you with your procurement process. I even created a video where I’ll explain how you can use this template.
Types of Procurement
There are various types of procurement and if you’re curious to know what they are, we’ve compiled this list specially for you!
1. Direct Procurement
This type of procurement refers to anything that is required to produce an end product. To simplify, it is the direct purchases of raw materials that contribute to the company’s end product.
From the retailer’s perspective, it is any item or materials that are purchased from a wholesaler to resell to customers or end consumers.
The following are the examples of a direct procurement:
- Raw materials
- Components and parts
- Machinery
- Items purchased to resell
2. Indirect Procurement
Indirect procurement involves the materials significant to aid the day-to-day operation without a direct contribution to the company’s product. In simple terms, it is the materials that support the operation of an organization.
Additionally, the task officers are the ones who handle it in small companies. On the other hand, large corporations utilize facilities management to handle indirect procurement. Below are some examples of indirect procurement:
- Marketing supplies
- Equipment maintenance
- Office suppliers
- Marketing services
- Consulting services
3. Goods Procurement
Goods procurement talks about the good itself or the physical items. Although it refers to physical items, it also includes software subscriptions. The success of goods procurement relies heavily on the efficiency of your supply chain.
Goods procurement may also include indirect and direct procurement. An example of these are:
- Raw materials
- Equipment maintenance
- Items
- Office Supplies
4. Services Procurement
Service procurement involves hiring third parties, leasing software, and contractors or vendors to work for you. To put it simply, it is sourcing people-based services. Service procurement may also include direct and indirect procurement in its process.
At Procurement Tactics, we have experience in all types of procurement. If, after reading this article, you would like to learn more about the various forms of procurement, we would be delighted to assist you further.
What is Procurement?
We all know what procurement means in the supply chain. But let’s consider the beginners in their journey. To give you a brief explanation, it is the process that encompasses the activities involved in acquiring the goods or services.
However, we must note that not all companies define procurement the same as the others. Some companies define it as the overall process while others narrow it down to the issuance of orders and payments.
Procurement is often used interchangeably with purchasing. However, this is not the case. Some regard purchasing as one part of the large process of procurement. Click here to find out more about the difference between procurement and purchasing.
Going back, procurement involves every activity in acquiring the goods and services the company needs to operate. It includes sourcing, negotiating agreements, purchasing items, inspecting all delivered items, and keeping records of each process in procurement.
How Does Procurement Work?
The procurement works through its various processes. It involves steps to follow for businesses to acquire their goods with ease. Procurement does not consist of isolated steps rather it is an ongoing process that jumps from one to another.
Generally, businesses desire to build a strong relationship with their potential suppliers. Businesses do this to gain the best possible services or goods at a reasonable price. To know the different steps to utilize procurement, click here.
Why is Procurement Important?
We all know what procurement is but have you ever thought of its importance? The importance of procurement revolves around the supply chain. Procurement is one of the keys to understanding the supply chain. It entails finding the best supplier in the market that will match their requirements in terms of quality and price.
Furthermore, without procurement, it will be hard for companies to acquire goods and services that will provide a competitive advantage. This will also decrease the productivity rate and incur more losses. This is because the goods and services the company acquires do not meet the requirements.
Elements of Procurement
Here are essential elements of procurement that you should know about.
1. People
The people who constitute the organization are the ones responsible for initiating every step of the procurement process. Without them, the organization cannot develop as they are essential for the everyday operation of the business.
That people are important, nobody needs to explain. The question is how your company trains its people so they can perform optimally in their procurement field. In companies where I have worked, I am accustomed to people being optimally trained. Whether you are purchasing raw materials or finished products ready for sale, it remains true that well-trained individuals will undoubtedly be able to achieve better results.
2. Process
The processes in procurement are what aid the company to develop and succeed. An efficient procurement process will lower costs and will ensure that the supplies will arrive on time. It allows the accuracy of materials, orders, and payments which results in optimum performance of the organization.
The second element, which is also a no-brainer, is the process. In addition to having good, motivated, and well-trained people, there must also be a process in place that empowers these people and contributes to the right outcome. I have seen several companies where this was not the case.
Tasks and responsibilities are often placed too high up in the company, or the process relies heavily on Excel documents, involving a lot of manual work, which can also lead to input errors. The best course of action is to document the various processes within procurement and carefully consider which steps can be improved and who should perform each step.
3. Documents
Documents are important to make sure that all the processes are accurate. It is important to keep these records so that they can be accessed easily when the need arises. Documents act as proof that transactions happened and that they are known by the organization.
When we talk about documents, it can refer to various types of documents. One that I want to mention here is the addition of EDI (electronic data interchange). Adding EDI to your business processes ensures that important documents such as invoices and orders can be sent electronically and automatically. This increases efficiency and reduces the chance of errors.
Conclusion
Mastering procurement, understanding diverse types, recognizing its pivotal role, and focusing on essential elements are crucial for professional success in this field.
If you want to know more about procurement be sure to look around on our website at our other articles, or better yet, buy a procurement course as an investment for you and your company’s future!
Frequentlyasked questions
What is procurement?
Procurement is the comprehensive process that involves acquiring the goods or services an organization needs to operate effectively. It encompasses activities such as identifying needs, sourcing suppliers, negotiating contracts, and purchasing items.
Why is procurement important?
Procurement is crucial because it underpins supply chain management and helps organizations secure necessary resources at competitive prices. Effective procurement contributes to cost savings, enhances competitiveness, and ensures that quality standards are met.
What type of procurement is mostly used?
The predominant type of procurement depends on the specific needs of a business, often incorporating both direct and indirect procurement. Companies tailor their procurement strategies based on industry requirements and operational goals.
About the author
My name is Marijn Overvest, I’m the founder of Procurement Tactics. I have a deep passion for procurement, and I’ve upskilled over 200 procurement teams from all over the world. When I’m not working, I love running and cycling.