Category Management in Purchasing

Category Management is a technique used to understand markets, analyse spend and make purchasing decisions which save money. It is about a pathway from accepting mediocre goods and services at high cost, to effective supply management which delivers real value. By altering how goods are categorised and supplied it helps shift sourcing from being an error-prone transaction to creating value for the business. Using case studies and practical examples, "Category Management in Purchasing" provides a clear definition and understanding of category management. The author presents a step by step process for its implementation and use, which companies can readily apply in line with their overall business strategy. This practical toolkit will allow readers to analyse complex sourcing situations quickly and clearly and develop innovative and creative proposals for sourcing. Category Management in Purchasing fills a need in the literature available on this topic and provides the reader with a thorough insight into the principles and application of category management. Ken James, former CEO of the Institute of Purchasing and Supply Jonathan O'Brien has managed to encapsulate everything that organizations must put in place to deploy effective category management. A quality read and a great reference manual to keep on hand. Marc Magistrali, Senior Vice-President Global Outsourcing, KONE Corporation The definitive guide to strategic category management in modern organizations. Patricia A Whitehouse, Global Learning & Development Manager, Procurement Supply Chain Management, BP Plc