Information technology in supplier networks

Sascha Weber's work delves into procurement, focusing on the interactions with business partners outside one's organization. Procurement encompasses purchasing goods and services from suppliers, including raw materials for production, maintenance supplies, and capital goods like machinery. Key procurement decisions involve selecting suitable suppliers, designing purchasing contracts, and choosing the right information technology to facilitate the procurement process. Recent advancements in information technology have not only streamlined traditional procurement methods but also introduced new business models, such as virtual enterprises and electronic markets. Weber's research aims to analyze how information technology and anticipated advancements impact an organization's procurement decisions. The analysis identifies crucial parameters that characterize the properties of information technology and supplier relationships. It differentiates between types of information technology based on their functions: one set supports the evaluation of potential suppliers, while another aids in managing ongoing supplier relationships. This exploration highlights the evolving role of technology in shaping procurement strategies and decision-making processes.