7 Common Weaknesses In Procurement Teams

In our previous edition of the Procurement Leaders Playbook, we discussed 7 Ways to Beat AI in Procurement. This week, we’re getting more practical and will discuss 7 Common Weaknesses In Procurement Teams.?

Many procurement professionals find themselves facing a range of challenges, each one a potential pitfall that can disrupt the flow of operations and diminish the efficiency of procurement processes.?

In this issue, we aim to shine a light on 7 common areas of weaknesses, alongside providing insights to transform them from vulnerabilities into strengths.

Check Out: Upcoming CIPP and CIPM certification program

Weakness 1. Lack of Visibility and Control

The first hurdle in procurement is often the fog that shrouds the entire process. From unclear spending habits to fragmented supply chains, a lack of visibility can lead to inefficiencies and compliance risks, being one of the major weaknesses among procurement teams.

How to Overcome??

Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor procurement activities and introduce supplier relationship management (SRM) practices to ensure better control across the supply chain.

Weakness 2. Inefficient Processes

Time is a commodity that procurement departments cannot afford to waste. Manual processes, from paper-based orders to endless email chains are another significant weakness among procurement teams.

How to Overcome??

Streamline procurement processes through automation to significantly reduce procurement cycles and free up valuable time. Also consider adopting e-procurement solutions that offer electronic requisitions, approvals, and order management, transforming procurement into a well-oiled machine.

Weakness 3. Inadequate Supplier Management

A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. In procurement, this axiom holds true in the realm of supplier management. Without a robust strategy, you risk dependency on unreliable suppliers, which can lead to supply chain disruptions and quality issues.?

How to Overcome??

Strengthen your supplier relationships by developing a comprehensive supplier management strategy that includes regular performance evaluations, risk assessments, and collaborative partnerships focused on mutual growth and sustainability.

Weaknesses 4. Resistance to Change

Change is the only constant, yet it's often met with resistance within organizations. This resistance is a major weakness as it can significantly hinder the adoption of new procurement technologies or methodologies.?

How to Overcome??

Create and promote a culture of innovation and continuous improvement to address this. Engage your team in the transformation process, highlighting the benefits and providing the necessary procurement training and support to ease the transition.

Weakness 5. Ignoring Data Analytics

Data analytics can uncover trends, forecast demands, and identify cost-saving opportunities. By not leveraging analytics, businesses miss out on strategic insights that could optimize procurement decisions.?

How to overcome it??

Invest and train your teams to implement analytics that can process and interpret procurement data, enabling you to make evidence-based decisions that drive cost efficiencies and enhance supplier performance.

For You: Big Data Analytics for Supply Chain & Procurement Training!

Weakness 6. Poor Stakeholder Engagement

Procurement doesn’t operate in a silo—it’s interconnected with various departments and external stakeholders. A lack of communication or alignment with key stakeholders can lead to mismatched priorities, delayed projects, and missed opportunities.

How to Overcome?

Foster cross-functional collaboration by involving stakeholders early in the procurement process. Implement regular meetings, clear communication channels, and a shared understanding of goals to ensure alignment and support for procurement initiatives.

Weakness 7. Limited Focus on Sustainability

In today’s world, sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity. Failing to integrate sustainable practices into procurement strategies can lead to reputational risks, non-compliance with regulations, and missed opportunities to cut costs through energy and resource efficiency.

How to Overcome?

Develop a sustainable procurement policy and align it with your organizational values. Prioritize suppliers with eco-friendly practices, and train your team on how to incorporate sustainability into supplier selection and procurement processes.

Enroll into the CIPP/CIPM Procurement Certifications

Address common weaknesses procurement professionals face with confidence by enrolling in Certified International Procurement Professionals (CIPP) or Certified International Procurement Manager certification program.?

Designed to fortify your foundation and expand your expertise, this certification will equip you and your team with the insights and tools needed to turn common procurement challenges into opportunities for innovation and growth.?

Learn more about this IFPSM accredited certification here or start your application to directly enroll into the program.

Got questions?

Email us at [email protected] or call us at +1-312-300-8968 for a priority response.

You are in a Unique Position!

As procurement professionals, you are in a unique position to drive change and create value within our organizations.?

Seize this opportunity to transform challenges into stepping stones for success. To stay ahead in procurement, it's crucial to keep learning, innovating, and adapting.?

Follow us on LinkedIn to stay connected, discuss challenges, share insights, and collaborate with our network of over 65,000+ procurement professionals.

For more details call us at +1-3112-300-8968 or email [email protected]?