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E-Procurement - Digital Transformation for Business Procurement

E-Procurement - Digital Transformation for Business Procurement

Digital transformation in procurement delivers numerous benefits, especially through advanced e-procurement systems. But what exactly is e-procurement? It’s the online procurement of goods and services through digital platforms. With a modern e-procurement solution like SIGEL’s, businesses streamline procurement processes, save costs, and reduce error sources.
E-procurement explained easily

The definition of e-procurement describes the digital process of procurement. Unlike traditional methods, where orders and invoices are processed manually, e-procurement software allows for a fully digital workflow. All steps, from ordering and approval to invoicing, are automated

E-Procurement advantages

With an e-procurement system, companies can digitize their procurement processes and thereby achieve numerous benefits.

Advantages at a glance

EFFICIENCY By automating e-procurement processes, you can save time and relieve your employees.
TRANSPARENCY Every step in the e-procurement process is traceable, which facilitates control and optimization.
COST SAVINGS By bundling orders, you can achieve better conditions with suppliers.
FLEXIBILITY Modern e-procurement tools can be seamlessly integrated into existing ERP systems and allow for individual adjustments.
The e‑procurement process: how it works
E-Procurement-Prozess

The e‑procurement process: how it works

The e‑procurement process covers several steps digitized by a SaaS solution. From product selection and approvals to ordering and delivery, everything runs via a central B2B procurement platform. With tools like SIGEL Smartpro - optimized for business stationery and promotional materials - these processes can be implemented seamlessly and automatically.

Steps in the e‑procurement process

The e-procurement process goes through several clear phases that cover the entire purchasing cycle efficiently and transparently. With SIGEL’s e-procurement tools, especially the SIGEL Smartpro solution, each of these steps can be implemented seamlessly and automatically:

REQUIREMENT REQUEST
Employees enter their specific requirements directly via the SIGEL procurement platform. Needs can be recorded quickly and easily in a structured, user-friendly interface, ensuring that no order requests are overlooked and everything is documented centrally.
APPROVAL
Through automation via SIGEL Smartpro, all requests are automatically forwarded to the responsible approvers. Defined approval workflows ensure that requests do not have to be tracked manually and are processed quickly. Clear, digital approval processes increase transparency and speed in the procurement cycle.
ORDER
Once approval is granted, the order is transmitted directly to the corresponding supplier via SIGEL's B2B procurement platform. The SIGEL Web2Print function supports you with individual print orders that are tailored exactly to your needs. This direct connection saves time and ensures that all orders are executed correctly and on time.
INVOICING
Invoices are automatically generated in the SIGEL e-procurement system and forwarded to the ERP system. Thanks to the full integration of SIGEL Smartpro, invoices are automatically checked and recorded directly in the system. This step minimizes manual entries and reduces sources of error, while the central ERP system always receives up-to-date information.
Prerequisites for successful implementation
Smartpro von SIGEL

Prerequisites for successful implementation

For the introduction of an e‑procurement system to succeed, certain prerequisites should be met. The digital procurement platform is central and should integrate into existing systems. SIGEL’s solutions offer flexible interfaces for easy connection to ERP systems such as SAP.

Requirements for an e‑procurement system

A successful e‑procurement system should have certain characteristics to function seamlessly:

INTERFACES

The e‑procurement software must be compatible with existing systems.

USER-FRIENDLINESS

An intuitive design makes adoption easier for all employees.

SECURITY

Individual access rights and budget limits ensure the process is controlled.

Training and change management

For the successful implementation of an e‑procurement system like SIGEL Smartpro, it is essential to involve employees early and comprehensively in the process. Targeted training and a structured change‑management approach are key to making optimal use of the new software and achieving long‑term acceptance within the company.

TRAINING

  • All users should receive targeted training to ensure they are familiar with the functions and processes of the new e-procurement software. It is advisable to offer different types of training:
  • Basic Training: Introductory courses that explain the fundamental functions of the SIGEL e-procurement software and the procurement process workflow. This builds a solid understanding of digital procurement and software operation.
  • Role-Based Training: Depending on the employee's role in the procurement process—e.g., approvers, purchasers, or invoice auditors—specific content is taught that is tailored to their daily tasks.
  • Practical Workshops and Application Training: In hands-on workshops, participants become familiar with typical scenarios and tasks. These interactive sessions promote understanding and efficient use of the system in daily operations.

CHANGE-MANAGEMENT

  • A well-structured approach to change management is crucial for promoting acceptance of the new e-procurement system within the company. Here are some proven steps:
  • Early Communication: Inform employees in a timely manner about the introduction of the e-procurement solution and its associated goals and benefits, such as increased efficiency and simplified procurement processes. Transparent communication facilitates the transition and fosters a positive attitude toward the new software.
  • Identify Key Users: Appoint key users in various departments to act as contact persons and experts for the e-procurement system. These "multipliers" can support training, answer questions, and ensure smooth operation.
  • Feedback Loops: After implementation, feedback should be actively collected from users to continuously optimize the system and adapt it to individual needs. Those responsible for change management play a crucial role in this process.
  • Continuous Training and Updates: Plan regular refresher courses and update training sessions, especially when new features are added to SIGEL's SaaS solution. This keeps knowledge current and ensures the software is used to its full potential.
Digitisation in purchasing – get started now with SIGEL Smartpro
Smartpro E-Procurement Lösung

Digitisation in purchasing – get started now with SIGEL Smartpro

With the SIGEL Smartpro e-procurement solution, you can take your purchasing processes to the next level. Our e-procurement tools, specially tailored to the needs of modern businesses, offer numerous advantages. Whether you require Web2Print solutions or B2B procurement platforms, Smartpro is the right solution for you. Individual customizations ensure that every e-procurement shop is perfectly suited to your specific requirements. With the future-proof SIGEL Smartpro SaaS solution, you will always be at the forefront of technology, and its simple integration into your existing IT landscape guarantees a seamless start.