Digital transformation is changing the way companies do business and manage their suppliers, facilitating strategic decision-making for organizations.
In the context of sustainability, a cross-cutting theme that involves practices from different sectors, the digitalization of purchases is essential to strengthen the transparency and efficiency of processes.
By digitizing purchasing processes, companies not only optimize their operations, but also become more aligned with market and consumer demands.
Deloitte’s “Global CPO Survey 2023” study revealed important data on the relationship between digital transformation and sustainability in the purchasing area.
According to the report, 65% of Chief Procurement Officers (CPOs) Respondents believe that digitalizing purchasing is essential to achieving sustainability goals.
The study highlights that companies that invest in digital technologies for purchasing management can reduce their operational costs by up to 20%.
Impacts of digitalization of purchasing processes on sustainability
Digital transformation in procurement involves the integration of advanced technologies into procurement processes, such as artificial intelligence, automation and RPA, among others.
These technologies enable a efficient purchasing management of the supply chain, resulting in a series of positive impacts on sustainability.
1. Transparency in processes
With e-Procurement, companies have control over processes and greater transparency in negotiations with suppliers, as all purchasing stages are recorded in the tool.
This visibility allows buyers to make purchasing decisions considering sustainable and environmental aspects. ESG, such as compliance with technical standards, legislation and regulations.
2. Reduction of resources
Digitized purchasing processes eliminate the need for paper documents and are more energy efficient.
Process automation and data analysis They also help identify inefficiencies and waste in purchasing processes, from production to delivery to the consumer.
3. Supplier management
The solution for supplier management – SRM (Supplier Relationship Management) – facilitates the evaluation and monitoring of suppliers based on sustainability criteria.
With the tool, companies can ensure that their business partners are also committed to sustainable practices, thus creating a value chain more responsible.
4. Logistics optimization
Digital transformation enables more accurate and efficient logistics planning, reducing the number of trips required and optimizing delivery routes.
Additionally, data analytics and Big Data technologies provide insights into demand patterns, increasing the intelligence in purchasing management.
5. Life cycle analysis
With digitalization, organizations can perform more detailed analyses of the life cycle of products and services, identifying opportunities to reduce environmental impact.
The concept, also known as Green Supply Chain Management, includes the choice of sustainable materials, optimization of production processes and circular economy practices.
6. Strategic audience engagement
Digital procurement transformation facilitates the engagement of different stakeholders, including customers, business partners, employees and the community.
The transparency promoted by technology allows companies to share their sustainable practices and the results obtained, increasing stakeholder confidence.
7. Continuous innovation
By digitizing procurement processes, companies can cultivate a culture of continuous innovation, which is vital for long-term sustainability and competitiveness.
Additionally, companies can explore new technologies and approaches to constantly improve their processes, quickly adapting to market changes.
Sustainability as a strategic pillar for business
In the corporate world, sustainability is no longer an option and has become one of the main strategic issues for business to prosper.
In this sense, companies that invest in the digitalization of their purchasing operations reap long-term benefits that go beyond simple cost reduction.
Collaboration is also a significant gain from digital transformation, resulting not only in efficiency but also in strengthening the commitment to sustainable practices.
By integrating technology and responsible purchasing practices, we collaborate to build a future in which sustainability and economic growth go hand in hand.
Achieve a more sustainable, transparent and collaborative purchasing area. Discover the solution e-Procurement of the Electronic Market.
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