Unit 2 Assignment - Purchasing Function in an Organization

Unit 2 Assignment: Purchasing Function in an Organization

In this assignment, you are going to analyze the procurement function of an organization. Preferably, you will select the organization where you currently work or one where you previously worked. If this is not possible, you may select an organization on which you will be able to gather the required information. For example, government agencies, including the military, provide a lot of information on their purchasing practices.

However, if you need to choose this route, you must communicate with your instructor through email first. Explain why you are not able to use your personal work experience. Then propose an organization on which you will write your paper. Your instructor will let you know how to proceed. You need to do this early in the week so you have time to agree on an organization. Failing to do this on time is not an excuse for submitting your assignment late, or using an organization without approval.

In order to complete this assignment, you may need to first collect information from your organization. Start this process early in the week to ensure you have all the information you need.

This assignment will assess your knowledge based on the following Outcomes:

MT436-1: Discuss the role and mechanisms of the purchasing function in an organization.

GEL-1.02: Demonstrate college-level communication through the composition of original materials in Standard English.

Instructions:

· Begin by briefly describing the organization you will be analyzing. Include at least this information: What do they do, what is their overall strategy for competing in the marketplace, how big are they? Feel free to hide names if confidentiality is an issue.

· Describe the purchasing objectives of your company based on the discussion that begins on page 42 of your book. List at least two strategic and two tactical goals.

· Do you think these goals are appropriate? What would be better goals that would serve the company better? Recommend at least one additional goal.

· Based on the discussion that begins on page 119, describe the internal integration of the procurement function of your organization. For two functions in your organization, describe the various linkages and flows that promote this integration. Use exhibit 4.1 as a guide.

· Do you think a sufficient level of integration exists? What additional linkages would you want to see? Describe at least one.

For this assignment, respond using the critical elements below:

· Write your original response in Standard English, paying special attention to grammar, style, and mechanics.

· Respond to the questions in a thorough manner, following the prescribed format and citing your sources using current APA guidelines. Include a title page and reference page in your paper. Review the APA formats found in the Writing Resources accessed through the Academic Success Center within the Academic Tools area of the course.

· Ensure that your viewpoint and purpose are clearly stated.

· Demonstrate logical and appropriate transitions from one idea to another.