You might assume that we are talking about a procurement audit. That process in and of itself is something most procurement departments are not prepared for.
The question here is really are you as a buying organization prepared for any kind of an audit because most of the time contracts work there way back to the procurement department whether they are for consumables, services or any area other business expense that requires negotiation resulting in specific terms and conditions or standards that require compliance.
Although the audit process can be a good thing because it holds companies and individuals accountable, to often they are a result of something that is already broken and we are looking for a reason as to why. Or, someone to blame.
Audits can generally be broken down into the three classes that follow.
1. Significant Risk – This is non compliance that generally results in a major financial loss to the company
2. Moderate Risk – This is non compliance that generally results in a negative impact to the company
3. Minor Risk – This is a non compliant act that generally results in a negative impact to an existing process within a company
From a procurement perspective this can include all items required during the bid and award process. Such as .
1. Purchase Orders tied to contract quotes
1. Delivery T&C’s
2. Definition of contract terms
4. Bidding process used
5. Vendor notification of award
6. Corporate standards adherence
7. Signature authority
8. Termination Clauses
9. Training adherence
The above list is potentially endless. The point is if you are buying products or services for your company, you need to be able to withstand a vigorous internal audit so that your auditors can withstand a vigorous external audit.
Is your procurement team prepared?
We look forward to and appreciate your comments.
