During which step of the strategic sourcing process do you actual purchase items you have contracted for?

The strategic sourcing process encompasses several key steps designed to optimize procurement and supplier relationships. The step where you actually purchase the contracted items is "Procure."

During the procurement phase, organizations execute their purchasing contracts with selected suppliers. This step involves placing orders, managing inventories, and ensuring the timely delivery of goods or services agreed upon during the sourcing and negotiation phases. It is crucial to ensure that all terms established in previous steps are honored by both parties, and that the logistics of delivery and payment flow smoothly.

The other steps in the strategic sourcing process, such as planning, sourcing, and bidding and negotiating, lay the groundwork for procurement but do not involve the actual purchase of goods. Planning focuses on identifying needs and setting objectives, sourcing involves identifying and selecting suppliers, and bidding and negotiating centers on finalizing contracts. Thus, the correct answer highlights the specific point in the process when transactions occur and tangible goods are transferred.