Incorporating SRD
So you’re currently…
… using a database approach to contract management. This likely has its own file attachment facility but may alternatively link to an existing document management system (eg. sharepoint). You are also able to record more information than any spreadsheet could reasonably cope with, you can control access an can run management reports instantly.
Additionally, you have begun to introduce and incorporate elements of Supplier Relationship Development to your database approach. So you are managing key dates for contract reviews and supplier meetings or supplier / contract performance reviews.
Chances are you already have an NIP Spend Management solution, make use of a bolt on module to your eTendering system, have an all singing all dancing ERP solution, or have internally sourced your own database.
Recommended next steps
- Ask yourself whether your database is working for you – are you getting enough value from it to justify the resource spent maintaining it.
- Start thinking about how to link your database to other internal systems (Accounts / Finance systems, eTendering modules, Credit Rating database, document management systems etc) to minimise duplication of effort through ‘rekeying’ information
- Create a list of management reports you think your database should provide, and request help from your current supplier on how to run them (if the information is in there – you should be able to extract it easily and in a meaningful format).
- If you already have a list of reports you that you cannot currently run, send them through to us at support@contractsregister.com and we’ll try to help you find the answers.
- Start thinking about how to implement a database approach to contract management
How can NIP help?
If your database is becoming difficult to manage, your current provider is unresponsive to any of the issues outlined above, or if any of the following are true:
- it is difficult to maintain / keep up to date
- you want to be able to attach documents
- you have multiple groups of users, all needing to input and manage sets of data that they are responsible for
- you want to start tracking the stages that make up the procurement lifecycle (not just contract award info)
- you want to record outcomes / KPIs across the contract lifecycle
- you want to monitor fluctuating risk levels throughout the procurement lifecycle
… then you should consider NIP’s Procurement Lifecycle Management approach to contract management.
NIP can help you to get the most from your existing database or help you on your journey to complete Procurement Lifecycle Management.
For organisations interested in basic contract management tools – take a look at our Active Contract Register.
For organisations looking for more complete ‘Procurement Lifecycle Management – take a look at our PL-cms.