Simplifying the procurement process by using e-commerce

Abstract

This paper addresses a group of business data processing e-commerce simplifying factors that increase the e-commerce procurement process. The aim of this research is to build a model comprising 15 factors that simplify and increase the procurement process by using e-commerce. Survey data from the 133 large enterprises in Slovenia are analysed. On the basis of these research results, the model of e-commerce factors in the procurement process 'business data processing simplicity' has been developed. In this paper, we find that enterprises, which endeavour to have success in performing procurement processes electronically, should simplify the following subprocesses: bidding, access to suppliers' goods or catalogues, ordering from the supplier, order tracking and possible suppliers' requisition request. Respondents from the companies that had been surveyed look for excellent possibilities in simplifying these processes by using e-commerce. Statistical modelling allows for the explanation of interdependencies and codependencies of functional factors in the procurement chain.