Procurement: A Global Legacy of Acquiring Value Across Cultures & Time
Chris Smith, MBA, PMP, VCA, VCARM
Procurement, Supply Chain, Operations, Finance, Public Service Professional Leader | Executive MBA | Program Management | Consultant | Procurement Evangelist | REALTOR?| Notary Public | Author | Ghost-History Tour Guide
Procurement: A Global Legacy of Acquiring Value Across Cultures & Time
By Chris Smith, MBA, PMP, VCA, VCARM
Date: 10/07/2024
In every language, from every corner of the world, procurement speaks to one thing: the act of obtaining, acquiring, and supplying what is essential. It’s a profession built on the timeless values of securing resources, maximizing value, and enabling progress. But how often do we stop to think about what procurement means globally? How does it resonate across cultures, languages, and histories?
Today, let’s take a journey to explore procurement’s fascinating linguistic roots and evolving role in society. Join me as we dive into what makes procurement a universal profession and how it continues to be essential for organizations worldwide.
The Global Language of Procurement
In Mandarin, "采购" (Cǎigòu) brings to mind the structured act of acquiring and securing goods, while in French, "Approvisionnement" hints at a broader scope of provisioning resources. In Arabic, "???????" (Al-Tawrid) emphasizes the supply chain flow and continuity, and in Spanish, "Adquisición" speaks of acquisition, yet another nuanced perspective on the goal of obtaining resources.
From "Beschaffung" in German, which focuses on obtaining resources in a business context, to "??" (Jodal) in Korean, which signifies procurement as a cornerstone of organizational stability, each language reveals a unique aspect of what procurement means. It’s an action tied deeply to human needs, strategic foresight, and the ability to connect with others in the pursuit of value.
Why Does Procurement Mean So Much?
Whether it’s the small purchases we make every day or the large-scale procurement strategies in our governments and companies, procurement touches everyone. It drives economies, enables innovation, and supports communities by fulfilling their diverse needs. Procurement professionals don’t just buy; they secure partnerships, align with sustainability goals, ensure compliance, and mitigate risk—all while finding the best value.
In its earliest days, procurement was about survival. Ancient merchant cultures, like the Minoans in Crete, were among the first professional seafarers who brought goods from one land to another. It was a basic need but also an art—a skill that required negotiating, navigating, and understanding the values and traditions of different cultures. Today, we still see procurement as a craft, yet it has expanded in scope and impact.
Measuring What Really Matters
So, what makes procurement successful today? It's no longer enough to measure just spend or speed; instead, a balanced scorecard approach is needed, reflecting key values such as:
Each of these elements speaks to a different part of procurement’s global mission to serve organizations and communities. It’s a multifaceted job, one that demands knowledge, patience, and the ability to connect with both internal stakeholders and external partners.
The Origins and Meaning of “Procurement”
The word “procurement” itself has Latin roots, derived from “procura,” meaning "to take care of." This origin speaks volumes about the essence of the profession: it’s about ensuring that everything an organization needs is secured, managed, and cared for. From ancient markets to the digital procurement platforms we use today, the role has evolved but the intent remains the same: to fulfill needs with responsibility and foresight.
Procurement’s historical journey—from ancient trade routes to today’s AI-driven procurement platforms—shows just how essential it is in every society. It’s a field that balances tradition with innovation, stability with flexibility, and local needs with global opportunities.
The Future of Procurement: An Evolving Legacy
Today, technology is reshaping procurement. E-procurement tools like SAP, OpenGov, Bonfire, and Cobblestone enable organizations to track SLAs, KPIs, and real-time data throughout each procurement phase. AI is creating unprecedented efficiency, while data analytics help procurement professionals make smarter, value-driven decisions. And yet, the human element—the ability to negotiate, build relationships, and understand context—remains irreplaceable.
For those in procurement, the future holds endless potential. Imagine a “Procurement Utopia,” where we combine efficiency with transparency, speed with accuracy, and cost savings with sustainability. Imagine a world where procurement champions lead the charge, transforming the profession into one that is globally respected, digitally optimized, and strategically critical.
A Call to Action: Celebrate the Profession of Procurement!
Procurement is a profession rooted in purpose, grounded in history, and looking toward a bright future. It’s time to recognize procurement not just as a function but as a vital, strategic, and impactful role that serves the public, private, and governmental sectors.
As procurement professionals, we have the opportunity—and the responsibility—to continuously innovate, align with ethical standards, and embrace the values that procurement has always championed: trust, value, and stewardship.
So, to all procurement professionals, supporters, and advocates out there: let’s celebrate what we do and the legacy we’re building. Share your thoughts, insights, and aspirations for the future of procurement in the comments below. Let’s continue to drive this field forward, with purpose, precision, and pride.
About the Author - Chris Smith, MBA, PMP, VCA, VCARM
Chris Smith is a dedicated leader in public procurement, committed to advancing excellence, efficiency, and integrity across government and organizational purchasing. With a strong foundation in procurement management and certifications including PMP, VCA, and VCARM, Chris brings a wealth of expertise to his role as a Contract Specialist II. Known for championing transparency, collaboration, and best practices, Chris connects procurement professionals worldwide through LinkedIn, sparking discussions and inspiring progress in the field.
Let’s connect to explore new avenues for procurement excellence and redefine what’s possible in government service!
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