Sprinting with Flexibility to Transform Procurement Processes
In business, a "sprint” is when a team works to accomplish a specific goal within a predefined period. In procurement, flexible sprints allow teams to implement procurement changes quickly and improve the overall efficiency of procurement processes while also adjusting their efforts to account for conflicts.
Procurement leaders attempting to leverage agile practices within their organizations can use sprints to achieve measurable forms of transformation, such as the incorporation of new technologies or changes to core procurement processes.
Here, we'll explore how flexible sprints can be used for effective procurement and supply chain management strategies.
Examples of Sprints in Procurement Transformation
Sprinting can apply to almost any procurement project, and they are especially useful for transformation initiatives.
For example, a team could design and implement an automated workflow for supplier onboarding that would reduce the time needed to onboard new suppliers. The process for implementing the workflow could be broken out into stems, with assignments for different individuals to complete before the workflow goes live.
As another example, if your organization is looking to move from manual paper-based processes to digital ones, agile sprints can help you quickly create and implement the necessary software solutions. You can work alongside solution providers to establish timetables, roles, and objectives for digitizing your processes.
Implementing a Successful Sprint in Procurement
The first step in implementing a successful sprint is ensuring that everyone involved has a comprehensive understanding of the project objectives, timelines, and expected outcomes. Once these have been established, teams can start to break down the project into smaller deliverables, or ‘sprints’ — focusing on one key objective at a time.
One thing to remember when it comes to flexible sprints is that you must have an adaptable approach. Teams should anticipate challenges and be able to adjust the timeline as needed based on emerging market conditions or new developments in the procurement process. This will help ensure that each sprint delivers value within its specified timeframe, without sacrificing quality.
One way to increase flexibility is by using agile supply chain management tools such as project management software, order tracking systems, and collaboration tools that allow for easier communication throughout the process. These tools can be used to track progress, assign tasks and keep stakeholders up-to-date on changes—helping teams remain agile in their approach.
Overcoming Conflicts Through Collaboration
Real-time collaboration is an effective way to help teams manage conflicts that arise during sprints.
For example, different departments may have conflicting viewpoints on the best approach for a project or there may be disagreements over timeline and budget. By working in shorter sprints and focusing on collaboration, teams can better identify and resolve issues quickly — ensuring they remain focused on the core objectives of each sprint.
This also encourages teams to think creatively and come up with innovative solutions that achieve outcomes faster than traditional methods.
Demonstrating Value with Every Sprint
Once a sprint is completed, it’s important to demonstrate the value that it has brought to the organization. This could include tracking time, cost, and efficiency savings, as well as improved performance metrics.
By providing teams with tangible evidence that their work is making a positive impact on the business, they will be more motivated to continue working together in an agile manner — helping them to achieve maximum benefit from each sprint project.
Learn More at ProcureCon Indirect East
Flexible sprints are becoming increasingly popular among procurement and supply chain management teams due to their capacity to deliver timely transformation results. By following the steps outlined above, teams can use sprints effectively and efficiently — driving measurable forms of procurement transformation within their organizations.
To learn more about sprinting and procurement transformation, don’t miss ProcureCon Indirect East, happening from September 11th through 13th at the JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa. Download the agenda and register today.