APQC research shows that procurement is changing for the better with its strategic objectives. While in the past the focus was on cost savings, now there’s also an emphasis on avoiding supply disruption. Reflecting other changes in business environments, additional notable objectives include improving social responsibility in the supply chain, improving supplier relationships, and maintaining or improving margin.

Here are the Top 5 Most Important Strategic Objectives in Procurement:

While the degree to which procurement has changed over the past five years varies by organization, many of the changes that have happened are undeniably for the better. That said, procurement professionals still have opportunities to further strengthen relationships with suppliers in ways that drive added value for their companies and their supply chains.

Learn more about how procurement is changing for the better in this APQC article.