OUR METHODOLOGY
Lean Six Sigma’s DMAIC approach meets the 5-Step Strategic Sourcing Process to generate
data-driven, collaborative sourcing strategies that can be implemented with ease.
Read on to see how combining these two methodologies delivers results every time.
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Step 1: Define (D) - Process Initiation
This is the kick-off for our engagement with your organization. We work closely with your internal teams to define the problem and align on goals.
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Successful sourcing strategies are aligned to business requirements, and we like to learn not just from your Sourcing team but also from your key stakeholders.
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You can expect a Problem Definition, Project Charter and a recommended Sourcing Approach when we complete this step.
Step 2: Measure (M) - Situation Analysis
Measure what matters. Defining current state metrics is as critical as defining success metrics for your future state and we tackle it in this step.
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Once we align on internal business requirements, we start working with external partners to understand supply market dynamics through RFxs.
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You can expect summaries of RFx events along with Category Analysis and Supplier Analysis using intuitive frameworks.
Step 3: Analyze (A) - Strategy Creation
Data collected thus far is analyzed in further detail to arrive at multiple options that can be evaluated to deliver medium-to-long term sourcing strategies for your organization.
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This step includes gaining stakeholder approval to strategy which can be challenging without the type of detailed forethought we put into it in our first two steps.
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You can expect a Source Plan document which is a strategic action plan for your Sourcing team detailing long-term strategy along with a well-defined implementation plan.
Step 4: Improve (I) - Strategy Implementation
Even the most brilliant sourcing strategy can fail without a planned approach to implementation. Change Management will be carefully planned to minimize disruption to stakeholders and their daily operations. We will guide your Sourcing team to negotiation success by building a robust negotiation plan.
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You can expect a detailed Negotiations Guide when we complete this step of our engagement. We will continue to guide your team through Contract Completion.
Step 5: Control (C) - Continuous Improvement
Change is hard, even when everyone in the organization is bought into it. Establishing robust procedures helps the team sustain our improved approach to Sourcing.
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Supplier Relationship Management and Supplier Performance Measurement are the key focal points of this step.
You can expect a Post-Implementation Review as well as a Supplier Scorecard when we complete this final step of our engagement.