Define | CPC

The define quadrant of the procurement cycle is where you will gather all the procurement data that you have collated; this will determine what needs to be procured within your institution, and the order in which you may wish to approach any backlog. At this point, you will want to collect and refine information for each contract you are procuring, to ensure that you have everything you need. You will also need to identify all stakeholders which will be involved in the tendering, evaluation and award process which will follow.

We have broken down this stage into 10 chapters. Some of them, you will have undertaken without realising, others will hopefully act as an aide memoir for actions to be considered.

Chapter 1 - Identification of requirement

This section covers the questions to ask yourself to help you determine or refine your requirements.
Chapter 2 - Assessment of risk

A guide to assessing risks that may arise during a procurement exercise and determining the potential time/effort required when completing a risk assessment.
Chapter 3 - Plan the procurement process

Learn about the many aspects of procurement planning which will help the whole process go smoothly in this detailed guide.
Chapter 4 - Different financing methods

This section covers the several ways of paying for purchases which should be considered when determining how to fund a major procurement.
Chapter 5 - Identify the competitive process

This guide covers the requirements which can arise and any issues that must be addressed before embarking on the procurement process.
Chapter 6 - Outline business case

Learn how to prepare an Outline Business Case (OBC) for a proposed project including: expected outcomes, benefits and potential risks.
Chapter 7 - Market research

A guide to investigating the potential market in terms of researching the number of suppliers which are likely to be able to provide what is needed.
Chapter 8 - Identify/source possible suppliers

This section covers several ways of identifying/sourcing potential suppliers to obtain competitive bids for the required supplies and services.
Chapter 9 - Prepare the documentation

This guide covers procurement documentation and the level of detail required within it, which is an important element of the procurement process.
Chapter 10 - Writing a specification

Learn one of the most important tasks in the procurement process. This guide explains how to draft a specification with the ideal amount of detail for suppliers.

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