Strategic Sourcing
Course Objective
This course aims to develop operations professionals who can lead strategic sourcing initiatives that deliver value, innovation, and supply resilience in dynamic global markets. Students will learn to analyze spend, evaluate suppliers, negotiate strategically, and design sourcing strategies that align with business goals, using advanced digital tools and analytics.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand sourcing's strategic role in competitive advantage and cost leadership.
- Analyze spend data and develop sourcing strategies using category management frameworks.
- Conduct supplier evaluation, negotiation, and performance management.
- Integrate sustainability, risk mitigation, and digital technologies in sourcing decisions.
- Communicate and lead cross-functional sourcing initiatives effectively.
Strategic Sourcing Syllabus T30
| Session No. | Topics | Tool/Reading/Activity | Skill Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction to Strategic Sourcing | Keith Ch.1, pp. 1–22 | Strategic Thinking |
| 2 | Procurement vs. Strategic Sourcing | Keith Ch.2, pp. 23–42 | Conceptual Clarity |
| 3 | Spend Analysis and Opportunity Assessment | Keith Ch.3, pp. 43–68 | Data Analytics |
| 4 | Category Management and Sourcing Strategy | Keith Ch.4, pp. 69–94 | Portfolio Strategy |
| 5 | Supplier Evaluation and Market Intelligence | Keith Ch.5-6, pp. 95–143 | Market Research & Decision Modeling |
| 6 | RFPs, RFQs, Tendering and Contracting | Keith Ch.7, pp. 145–168 | Sourcing Processes |
| 7 | Negotiation Strategies and Techniques | Sollish Ch.6, pp. 91–110 | Negotiation Skills |
| 8 | Cost Modeling and Total Cost of Ownership | Keith Ch.8, pp. 169–190 | Financial Acumen |
| 9 | Supplier Relationship Management & Performance | Keith Ch.9, pp. 191–215 | Vendor Collaboration |
| 10 | Risk, Ethics and Sustainability in Sourcing | Keith Ch.10-11, pp. 217–260 | Responsible Leadership |
| 11 | Global Sourcing and Geo-Strategic Planning | Keith Ch.12, pp. 261–282 | Cross-border Strategy |
| 12 | Technology & E-Sourcing Platforms (AI, Blockchain) | Tech Demos + Articles | Digital Fluency |
| 13 | Sourcing KPI Dashboards and Performance Metrics | Sollish Ch.10, pp. 165–182 | Measurement & Analysis |
| 14 | Capstone Case: Sourcing Simulation & Presentations | Live Case/Simulation | Strategic Communication |
Textbook & Resources
Primary Textbook:
- Strategic Sourcing in the New Economy by Bonnie Keith et al.
Supplementary:
- The Procurement and Supply Manager's Desk Reference by Fred Sollish & John Semanik