| Popis: |
The increasing globalization has changed the dynamics of different functions within organizations. One function is procurement which has transformed from an operational to a strategic function. This transformation now requires standardization so that the entire sourcing of products is synchronized especially concerning the Request for Quotation (RFQ) process. A theoretical gap was also identified where the researchers observed that an in-depth RFQ process has not been explicitly discussed in the literature. The aim of this study was thus to explore the practices that global multi-categorical companies use to source their products, especially concerning the request for quotations. To investigate this aim, three research questions were used that helped identify the practices that purchasers use to source products with RFQs. To answer the research questions, the researchers conducted a case study at IKEA. A qualitative approach was chosen to better study the phenomenon in-depth. Methods used for data collection involved a combination of semi-structured interviews and open-ended questionnaires. In total, seven interviews were held with the focal firm with an additional 16 answering the questionnaire. An additional six interviews were also held with purchasers external to the focal firm to complement in filling the gap in existing research. The data was analyzed through thematic analysis and benchmarking. The main findings from the research were the identification of the RFQ process used by the focal company and consultant within the field of purchasing. The RFQ process for the focal company consisted of 7 themes (Triggers to launch RFQ; Defining Scope; Finalize Scope; Making Tactics, Structure and Approach; Execute and evaluate offer; Aligning solution and confirming the purchase agreement; and follow up and feedback). The process explained by consultants consisted of 8 themes (Preparation; Supplier identification and reduction; Making tactics and communication; Evaluate the quotations and internal alignment; Negotiations; Risk assessment and communication of results; and Feedback). These themes were highly similar to each other while at the same time providing an opportunity to identify areas that can be improved. Overall, besides contributing to filling the existing gap in the request for quotation process, this study concludes with a framework that global retail companies could adopt to procure more efficiently. |
