Exploring Coopetition: When Competitors Join Forces for Customer Value 

by Michelle Armstrong, TYS Global VP of Value Solutions Consultant

In today’s ever-evolving business landscape, the game of competition is no longer a zero-sum endeavor. It’s about leveraging strategic partnerships to maximize value for our customers. 🌟

Coopetition, a business strategy rooted in game theory (my thesis project), has been a game-changer. It’s the art of recognizing when it’s in our best interest, as competitors, to collaborate. By doing so, we can collectively innovate, reduce costs, and provide unparalleled solutions to our customers.

This strategy defies the notion that fierce competition is the only path to success. It’s about realizing that by working together on common challenges, we can elevate the entire industry. 📈

I’m excited to see how coopetition is reshaping the business world.

Have you had any experiences with coopetition, or insights to share? Let’s connect and discuss how we can create more value for our customers through collaboration and competition. 🤝

#Coopetition #BusinessStrategy #Collaboration

Elevate Your Master Data

by Michelle Armstrong, TYS Global VP of Value Solutions Consultant

In today’s fast-paced, data-driven world, organizations are increasingly relying on accurate and reliable data to make informed decisions, ensure compliance, and optimize operational efficiency. Among the most critical forms of data for any business is supplier information, which plays a pivotal role in procurement, risk management, and overall operational excellence. That’s where Trust Your Supplier (TYS) comes into the picture, revolutionizing how organizations manage their supplier data. In this blog, we’ll explore how TYS can help you take your master data governance to the next level. 

The Foundation of Trust: Transparency Through Blockchain 

One of the key challenges in managing supplier data has always been ensuring its accuracy and integrity. Discrepancies in supplier information can lead to costly errors, delays, and compliance issues. Trust Your Supplier leverages cutting-edge blockchain technology to address this challenge. 

Transparency: TYS creates a transparent and tamper-proof ledger of supplier information on the blockchain. This means that once data is recorded, it cannot be altered or deleted without leaving a trace. Say goodbye to data discrepancies and hello to data accuracy. With TYS, you can trust that the information you have is the most up-to-date and reliable. 

Data Accuracy: The Cornerstone of Informed Decision-Making 

Accurate master data is not just nice to have; it’s a necessity. TYS ensures that your supplier data is not only up-to-date but also reliable. This empowers your organization to make informed decisions confidently. With trustworthy supplier data, you can negotiate better contracts, forecast with accuracy, and optimize your procurement processes. 

Efficiency: Streamlined Supplier Management 

Managing supplier data can be a time-consuming and manual process, often bogged down by paperwork and data entry. TYS is designed to streamline supplier onboarding, automate processes, and reduce the need for manual data entry. This, in turn, allows your team to focus on what really matters – building and nurturing strategic supplier relationships. By automating administrative tasks, you can optimize your procurement operations and dedicate more time to enhancing supplier collaboration. 

Compliance: Your Path to Regulatory Adherence 

Master data governance and compliance are intrinsically linked. Ensuring that your supplier data aligns with regulatory requirements is paramount to avoid legal issues and financial penalties. TYS helps you meet these regulatory requirements with ease. By maintaining an accurate and tamper-proof ledger of supplier data, you can mitigate risks more effectively and ensure that your organization remains compliant with ever-evolving regulations. 

Join the Ranks of Data-Driven Organizations 

Trust Your Supplier is more than just a tool; it’s a revolution in master data governance. It empowers organizations to redefine how they manage their supplier data, providing transparency, data accuracy, efficiency, and compliance. By leveraging TYS, you can unlock the full potential of your supplier management processes and drive your organization forward in an increasingly competitive business landscape. 

Are you ready to elevate your master data governance? Join the ranks of forward-thinking organizations that have embraced Trust Your Supplier and discovered how it can transform your supplier data management. Say goodbye to data discrepancies and hello to data accuracy, efficiency, and compliance with TYS!  Let’s Talk

#TrustYourSupplier #MasterDataGovernance #DataAccuracy #Blockchain #SupplierManagement #Compliance 

Trust Your Supplier isn’t just a solution; it’s a fundamental shift in how businesses manage their supplier data. With its foundation in blockchain technology, it provides the transparency, accuracy, efficiency, and compliance needed in today’s data-driven business landscape. Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your master data governance – trust in Trust Your Supplier. 

Breaking News: Trust Your Supplier (TYS) Thrilled to be Spotlighted in Harvard Business Review Article

We’re absolutely elated to announce the release of the Harvard Business Review article that shines a spotlight on Trust Your Supplier (TYS) as the ultimate game-changer in supplier onboarding. It is with great excitement and pride that we share this incredible recognition with our TYS community and partners. 

Supplier onboarding – a necessary but often time-consuming process. It’s not uncommon for this vital step to take weeks or even months due to manual processes and documentation checks. But what if we told you there’s a game-changing disruptor on the horizon? Trust Your Supplier (TYS), as featured in the Harvard Business Review, is here to revolutionize supplier onboarding. TYS has harnessed the power of blockchain technology to create a worldwide network of buyers and suppliers, setting a new standard for supplier onboarding. 

So, what sets TYS apart? 

  1. Automation: TYS automates the cumbersome manual processes involved in vetting supplier data. Say goodbye to the days of lengthy onboarding.
  2. A Global Network: With over 100,000 fully vetted suppliers and partnerships with major players like BT Sourced, Lenovo, Nokia, Pearson, and Thermo Fisher, TYS has created a truly global network.
  3. Efficiency & Cost Savings: Purchasers using TYS have reported cost savings of nearly $500 per supplier. For enterprises with extensive supplier networks, this translates into eight-figure savings.
  4. Supplier Benefits: Suppliers experience an average onboarding time of less than a week, a 67% reduction. Plus, they can seamlessly work with multiple customers without the hassles of data duplication. 

We believe that a paradigm shift is underway in supply chain management and procurement. Organizations are increasingly adopting platform solutions like TYS to address systemic supply chain issues efficiently and collaboratively. TYS is leading the charge, revolutionizing supplier onboarding, and setting a new standard for the industry. 

Join us on this exciting journey toward a more efficient, collaborative, and cost-effective future. Learn more about how TYS is changing the game in supplier onboarding in our full article. 

harvard-business-review-logo-FD07ED9958-seeklogo.com

 

#SupplierOnboarding #SupplyChainRevolution #Blockchain #TYS #Efficiency #Collaboration #ProcurementExcellence #DigitalTransformation #Procurement #ProcurementComliance #RiskManagement #SupplyChainSolutions #FinancialRiskMitigation #SanctionsCompliance #ESGStrategy #ClimateRiskManagement #SustainableSourcing #SupplyChainResilience #RiskandCompliance #EthicalSourcing #FinancialCompliance #ESGReporting #ClimateResilience #SupplierDiversity #GlobalTradeCompliance #SupplyChainVisibility #ESGPerformance #ClimateChangeAdaptation #ProcurementInnovation #RiskAssessment #SupplyChainRisk #EthicalBusiness #CarbonFootprint #SupplyChainTransparency #ESGInvesting #ClimatePolicy #SustainableProcurement #RegulatoryCompliance #ProcurementLeadership #CPO  

Bridging the Gap Between the Intricacies of the Technological World and the Practicalities of Business Operations

In today’s age of digitalization, there exists a profound interconnectedness encompassing individuals, processes, institutions, and notably, risks. The junctures at which various forms of risk intersect—be it cyber, third-party, #compliance, operational, and more—are poised to proliferate in the foreseeable future.

Examining these risks in isolation falls short of offering a comprehensive perspective. Neglecting to grasp and scrutinize the interconnections and dependencies among them can result in shortsighted decision-making that does not align with overall risk tolerance levels and business objectives.

With diverse risk, audit, and compliance teams operating independently, often lacking a shared GRC (Governance, Risk, and Compliance) terminology, opportunities arise for redundant efforts, duplicated work, inconsistent and disorganized data, and the overlap of controls. Measuring the interconnectedness and swiftness of risk also becomes a complex endeavor since risk relationships lack clear definitions and consequently elude monitoring.

It is imperative to adopt an integrated and all-encompassing approach to risk management—one that fosters connections among individuals, data, and systems, in contrast to separate risk initiatives.

At Trust Your Supplier (TYS), our approach seeks to dismantle organizational silos and facilitate a profound understanding of the multifaceted risks emanating from various corners of an organization and how their interplay can impact the business.

How are you managing all the silos in your industry? Can we help?

#ValueEngineers, #TechnologyInnovators, #BusinessStrategists, #DigitalTransformation, #UnconventionalThinking, #RiskMitigators, #TrustYourSupplier, #EfficiencyExperts, #ValueEngineering, #TechVisionaries, #ProblemSolvers, #OrganizationalGrowth, #ProcessOptimization 

Reaping the Value of Value Engineers

by Michelle Armstrong, TYS Global VP of Value Solutions Consultant

In the fast-evolving landscape of technology, Value Engineers have emerged as pivotal influencers. Their primary role is to bridge the gap between the intricacies of the technological world and the practicalities of business operations, facilitating the seamless integration of technology systems with business strategies. This unassuming but significant community of professionals, with their knack for continuous collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving skills, have etched an indelible mark on many businesses, becoming our unsung heroes behind flourishing organizations during digital transformation. 

What is Value Engineering? 

Value engineering (VE), sometimes known as value analysis, represents a structured approach targeting the optimization of cost and functionality for products, processes, or systems. It’s a process that stimulates the elimination of excessive costs at various project stages while ensuring that quality and performance remain unaffected. 

Who are Value Engineers? 

Value Engineers are the remarkable, often unheralded, champions working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure maximum value is derived from technological products and systems. They are responsible for evaluating, identifying, and optimizing any process, successfully bridging the gap between technological innovation and organizational needs. Our technological world is shaped daily by these architects of innovation. 

Value Engineers bring countless benefits to organizations: 

  1. They’re Problem Solvers: They understand the complexities of systems, troubleshoot effectively to ensure their smooth operation and drive maximum value from them.
  2. They’re Insightful Strategists: Leveraging their profound understanding of technology and business interface, they formulate and execute successful strategies to boost productivity, reduce duplicated efforts, and foster the holistic evolution of organizations.
  3. They’re Visionaries: With a futuristic perspective, value engineers ensure that every technological endeavor aligns with the strategic goals and objectives of the company.
  4. They’re Collaborators: They streamline communication between diverse departments encouraging a culture of collaboration that respects the interrelationships of business operations.
  5. They’re Risk Mitigators: With a keen eye for potential vulnerabilities, they proactively implement safeguards, constantly refining processes and protocols to ensure a sturdy infrastructure that minimizes unforeseen challenges and secures the organization’s assets.
  6. They’re Efficiency Experts: Through constant process evaluation, value engineers significantly reduce unnecessary expenditures, increasing overall profitability and effectiveness. 

The Catalyst for Unconventional Thinking 

Incorporating diverse team members in value engineering is no longer optional – it’s essential. A diverse team kindles new viewpoints, propelling unconventional thinking that challenges the status quo. According to a 2019 report by McKinsey & Company, companies with the most culturally and ethnically diverse executive teams were 36% more likely to see above-average profits, a testimony to the transformative power of diversity. 

This critical observation underscores the immense transformative power of diversity. It is not merely a token or a tick mark on the corporate social responsibility agenda but a powerful tool that can shape organizational culture, drive business growth, and define industry trends. 

When a team is composed of individuals who perceive the world through varying lenses, it can engender unconventional thinking — the kind of thinking that routinely questions the status quo, doesn’t fear to tread the thin line between seemingly impossible and possible, and continually strives for betterment. This unconventional thinking often evolves into ingenious solutions, opening avenues of progress that were previously unseen or unthought of. 

Celebrating the Technical Experts and Visionary Leaders 

The value of value engineers cannot be underestimated. Their immense contribution is at the very heart of technological advancements. Their innovative and analytical minds bring a balance between cost-effectiveness, functional performance, and resource efficiency, significantly impacting the overall success of a project. We celebrate their resilience, innovation, and leadership, and remind every value engineer that their output is revered, appreciated, and always integral to our progressive march towards a technology-driven future. 

Incorporating the principles of value engineering can help you achieve the ideal balance between maximizing value and minimizing costs, leading to sustained success in the industry. 

As we help redefine the tech landscape, remember to embrace and elevate the guardians of technology – our value engineers. Let’s celebrate their accomplishments and acknowledge their expertise and vision, for they are the unseen champions writing the narrative of our technological advancement, one improvement at a time. 

#ValueEngineers, #TechnologyInnovators, #BusinessStrategists, #DigitalTransformation, #UnconventionalThinking, #RiskMitigators, #TrustYourSupplier, #EfficiencyExperts, #ValueEngineering, #TechVisionaries, #ProblemSolvers, #OrganizationalGrowth, #ProcessOptimization 

Unlocking the Potential of Data-Driven Procurement Teams with Actionable Insights

by Michelle Armstrong, Chief Relationship Officer

Pssst… The secret to unlocking the full potential of procurement lies in embracing the power of data. With a wealth of raw information at our fingertips, it’s crucial to transform this data into actionable insights that fuel informed decision-making. Learn how to satisfy your thirst for actionable procurement data by leveraging cutting-edge tools and strategies to turn raw information into valuable insights that propel your procurement operations to new heights. 

Rob Handfield, a distinguished professor of supply chain management, emphasizes that digital transformation in procurement is only possible with clean data. When discussing procurement data, we’re really talking about the importance of usable, clean data. 

Despite the vast amounts of data captured, only about 5% is analyzed. With the rapid growth of emerging technologies, we have more data than ever, yet we need more insight. So, how can we convert this information into intelligence? 

Visualizing a New World of Data 

Data visualization is a game-changer in making complex data more accessible and understandable. By presenting data in a visually engaging format, procurement teams can quickly identify patterns, trends, and relationships that might be concealed within raw data. Utilizing data visualization tools like interactive dashboards and detailed reports allows valuable insights to be easily communicated and understood, empowering teams to make data-driven decisions. 

Moreover, data visualization can help procurement professionals monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) in real-time, track supplier performance, and identify potential bottlenecks in the supply chain. By embracing this visual approach, organizations can transform their procurement processes and drive efficiency across the board. 

Collaborative Minds, United Goals 

To unlock the full potential of procurement data, it’s crucial to involve diverse perspectives and expertise. Cross-functional teams, composed of members from various departments, can work together to analyze data and develop innovative solutions. This collaborative approach enables organizations to leverage their employees’ unique skills and knowledge, fostering a culture of open communication and teamwork. 

By breaking down silos and encouraging collaboration, organizations can tap into the collective wisdom of their workforce and drive data-driven decision-making across the enterprise. This united effort leads to more effective procurement strategies and promotes a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. 

Embracing the Power of Predictive Analytics and Machine Learning 

The combination of predictive analytics and machine learning offers a powerful toolset for procurement teams to uncover hidden insights and make more informed decisions. By analyzing historical data, these advanced techniques can identify trends, forecast future outcomes, and recommend actions to optimize procurement processes. 

For instance, procurement teams can use predictive analytics to optimize inventory levels by identifying patterns in demand and adjusting stock levels accordingly. This ensures organizations balance carrying costs and stock availability, ultimately reducing waste and improving efficiency. 

Similarly, predictive analytics can help identify supplier risks by analyzing factors such as financial stability, delivery performance, and compliance. This enables procurement teams to proactively mitigate risks and maintain a resilient supply chain. 

Machine learning can further enhance procurement decision-making by continuously learning from data and refining its predictions over time. This allows organizations to uncover cost-saving opportunities, streamline processes, and stay ahead of the competition in an ever-evolving market landscape. 

Cultivating a Data-Driven Culture 

In her Procurement Magazine interview, Dawn Tiura explained that procurement should be the central hub of a successful enterprise with a culture of service-driven curiosity. This mindset should also extend to mining the gold within data. 

When Satya Nadella became Microsoft’s CEO in 2014, he emphasized creating a data culture to make better decisions based on quality data. Under his leadership, Microsoft has transformed into an organization that values data-driven decision-making, recognizing the immense potential of quality data to drive innovation, efficiency, and growth. 

So, does your organization have a data culture that includes your suppliers? 

To extract the most value from your data, involving stakeholders within and outside your enterprise is crucial. The procurement department must lead in fostering a data-driven culture, harnessing the potential of technologies like AI and blockchain. 

As a service provider, your success is my priority.  

By embracing diverse perspectives, leveraging data visualization, and harnessing advanced analytics, your organization can unlock the full potential of procurement data and drive meaningful business outcomes. 

#ProcurementData #DataDrivenCulture #DataVisualization #Collaboration #PredictiveAnalytics #MachineLearning #DigitalTransformation #EmpowerProcurement #FutureOfProcurement 

Women In Tech: Virtual Reality or Tangible Progress?

by Michelle Armstrong, Chief Relationship Officer

“Digital transformation will not happen without women in procurement.” – Kevin Peesker, President Worldwide SMC & Digital at Microsoft

In a captivating August 2019 article in Italy’s The Procurement Magazine, Jon Hansen shared an insightful interview with the then-president of Microsoft Canada, Kevin Peesker. Today, Mr. Peesker holds the title of Microsoft’s President Worldwide SCM & Digital.

In the article, Hansen highlights a powerful statement by the Microsoft leader: without more women in tech – and STEM professions overall, digital transformation will not happen.

Let’s explore the significance of this statement and the role of women in the digital transformation journey.

Compelling Figures: Time for Progress

When a top executive from a global technology giant like Microsoft emphasizes the importance of women for digital transformation success, the world takes notice. But will this attention lead to sustainable and progressive change? It’s time to move beyond mere agreement and take action to bring more women into the technology industry with equal opportunities and pay.

According to Tech Funnel’s April 2023 article, a mere 25% of workers in technology are women, and an even more disappointing 11% occupy executive positions. These statistics are from 2023 – four years after Hansen’s article.

Additionally, gender diversity in tech leadership fell from 86% in 2020 to 59% in 2021. However, a few positive notes also emerged during this time, like the percentage of women working for Apple increasing from 30% in 2014 to 35% in 2021. And overall, the percentage of women in the tech industry grew by 2% between 2019 and 2021.

Despite these small victories, we cannot ignore the following data:

  • 57% of women in tech feel burned out at work, compared to 36% of men.
  • 1 in 5 women in tech is considering leaving their job.
  • 75% of women in tech are consistently asked to handle more administrative tasks.

So, where does this leave us – men and women alike – in the quest for gender equality in high-tech?

Overcoming Digital Transformation Challenges with Women at the Helm

Digital transformation is impossible without more women “in” procurement and leadership positions across various industries. The key to digital success lies in where that “in” resides.

Tech Funnel reports that gender-diverse leadership teams are “48% more likely to outperform their competitors.” Additionally, diverse management teams generally produce better EBITA results, with HBR stating that margins for more diverse companies are higher than those struggling to gain traction.

Focusing on the tech industry and, more specifically, the digital transformation of the procurement industry, a 2019 Deloitte global survey of CPOs revealed dissatisfaction with their digital transformation strategies, and this was just before the pandemic.

In 2023, numerous reports cite poor data quality, lack of transparency, and failure to adopt technology as the top challenges CPOs face today.

While the lack of women in leadership roles in the tech industry – or any industry – may not be the sole or primary reason for companies’ struggles with digital transformation, it is undeniably a critical factor. A 2018 study on “the influence of gender on the adoption of technology among SMEs” is an excellent starting point for understanding our roles and impact on adopting cognitive procurement solutions, including AI.

Let’s keep the conversation going and empower women to shape the future of technology.

#WomenInTech #VirtualReality #DigitalTransformation #GenderEquality #WomenInSTEM #WomenInProcurement #Microsoft #TechIndustry #TrustYourSupplier #DiversityInTech #EmpowerWomen #FutureOfTechnology

Breaking Barriers: TYS’s Michelle Armstrong, Global VP of Value Engineering

In 2023, women are defying expectations and shattering glass ceilings 👏 every 👏 single 👏 day. And Michelle Armstrong is a prime example of this. Michelle, who hails from Ireland, is the Global VP of Value Engineering at Trust Your Supplier, a position that requires her to excel in building strong relationships with clients, colleagues, and partners. And excel she most certainly does.

When you meet Michelle, it’s easy to see why she was chosen for this role. Her kind and intuitive nature makes her an expert in understanding and connecting with others. Her ability to know the minute details of all her customers’ schedules is a testament to her excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. It’s no wonder she’s been so successful in building strong relationships with people from all walks of life.

At Trust Your Supplier, Michelle leverages her exemplary change management skillset to analyze issues, devise continuous process improvements, and incorporate business process initiatives to increase efficiency and streamline operations. She excels in building strong relationships with clients and third-party vendors and is highly skilled in translating their business needs into key features for our product development team.

But Michelle’s success is not just about her skills and experience. It’s also about her determination and resilience in the face of adversity. She grew up in a society that expected women to marry farmers and take care of the home. Yet, she refused to be held back by these expectations and chose to follow her own path, which has taken her all over the world. Michelle is a role model for women everywhere, showing that it’s possible to have a successful career while also prioritizing family and personal relationships.

Despite her busy schedule, Michelle has been married to her husband for 30 years and has gracefully raised strong, independent, and humble children while traveling around the globe. She embodies the idea that balancing personal and professional life is possible while excelling in both.

In a world where women are still fighting for equality, Michelle’s success is a shining example of what’s possible. She proves that with determination, resilience, and a willingness to break through societal expectations, women can achieve anything they set their minds to. We can’t wait to see what she’ll accomplish next.

#womeninleadership #breakingbarriers #femaleempowerment #diversityandinclusion #leadership #successstories #careergoals #genderequality #womenwholead #inspiration #supplychain #vendormanagement #businessrelationships

Digital Readiness and Your Degree For Success

Last week was one of the more interesting ones on the social media circuit, e.g., LinkedIn.

To start, a post referencing Dirk Spijkers raised an interesting debate regarding technology and partnerships. According to Spijkers, “at a high level, you must do more than provide great technology,” although great technology is still important. However, beyond the technology, you also “need to become a trusted “expert” partner who understands procurement organisations’ challenges across the enterprise and beyond.”

In my comment to that post, I said I would write an article about “breaking down the functional silos that limit the ability of internal and external stakeholders to work collectively toward a mutually beneficial outcome.” Today’s post is the fulfilment of that promise. I will also discuss the “critical role that a service provider will play in facilitating this collaboration to ensure seamless integration and user adoption.

The “Right” Skills

According to an August 2022 CIPS report, success in breaking down silos is directly linked to an organisation’s effectiveness at “facilitating collaboration to ensure seamless integration and user adoption” of new technologies. In short, and as intuitively user-friendly and effective digital tech – including AI is today, it still requires people with the right skills to work collaboratively toward a mutually beneficial result.

The report’s skills included “communication, internal stakeholder management, influencing, supplier relationship management, and negotiation.”

While the above observations sound entirely reasonable, a Deloitte Global Survey of CPOs indicates that a significant gap between recognition and realisation of skills still exists. The survey’s findings suggest that most CPOs are dissatisfied with the progress and results of their digital transformation strategies.

You may be wondering where I am going with this track. I will now come to the point. No matter how great the technology, digital success is built on the foundation of an organisation’s “digital readiness.” The core component of digital readiness means having the right talent and skills to communicate and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders. The collective and proactive application of these skills breaks down silos and paves the way for digital transformation success.

A Degree For Success

Several studies and corresponding articles indicate that in the five years leading up to the pandemic, many CPOs did not believe their existing teams possessed the necessary skills to deliver their strategic objectives. As I thought about these findings – which were somewhat surprising, a post by Iain Campbell-Mckenna caught my attention.

The post “Procurement’s Conscious Degree Bias” lamented the profession’s continuing practice of screening job candidates using a university or college degree as the proverbial “golden ticket” to get their foot in the door. How important is a candidate’s degree pedigree for choosing the next great hire? To what degree (excuse the pun) is having a diploma a predictor of success? Based on CPOs’ views of their team’s capabilities, prioritising education isn’t working.

There are a couple of great articles about “hiring for skills” by Chris Burt (University Business, July 2022) and Jonathan Finkelstein (Forbes May 2021) regarding the shift from diploma knowledge to “skilled experience.”

The message from a growing number of procurement industry experts and executives is becoming clear. Organisations need a team with the “right skills” to successfully break down the silos to achieve the level of digital readiness that leads to success.

Partner Skill and Experience Is Also Key

So, why am I talking about end-user skills as a solution provider?

Because when you are selecting a digital transformation partner, you have to look beyond the great technology to find the right skills, experience, and expertise to turn the digital promise into a digital success reality.

In a future post, I will talk about how you can assess a service provider’s technology and industry knowledge to optimise your success by leveraging advanced intelligent solutions.

Michelle Armstrong
TYS, Chief Relationship Officer