Difference between procurement and purchasing
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
While the terms 'procurement' and 'purchasing' are frequently used interchangeably, there are actually differences between them.
[edit] Procurement
Procurement is the strategic process of purchasing goods or services. This process may include a number of activities required in order to acquire the goods or services from a third party vendor, including the preparation of information, invitation to tender, submission of tenders, assessment, negotiation and contracting.
On construction projects, procurement can involve a team of consultants, following a set sequence of procedures based on a predetermined procurement route that will satisfy the long-term objectives of the client.
[edit] Purchasing
Purchasing is a more general term associated with the shorter term activities relating to actually buying something. It can be a subset of procurement, and generally refers to the administrative process of generating documentation such as purchase orders.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Government approach could undermine delivery and regeneration.
World's first mass timber data centre.
The overlooked environmental aspect of data centre development.
Introduction to radon awareness
New technical information sheet published by CIOB.
Updated supplier guide can help electrical contractors engage with NHP.
CIAT confirm the winners of the 2026 architectural technology awards.
Government launches a one stop shop for flood preparedness.
Sir Edwin Lutyens: Britain's greatest architect? Book review.
CIOB publishes free template to help assess and manage risks.
ECA's reflections on Party Conference season
Burnham wants to be confident of winning before asking for a fresh mandate.
New Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser
Sergio Cavalaro, Professor of Infrastructure Systems at Loughborough University.
Building safety levy for England
CIAT publish estimator tool for members.
Water sector faces a growing crisis that could slow the delivery of vital infrastructure.