ART - What's In A Name? 2011

The document discusses the importance of using the right words to describe the people procurement professionals work with. It emphasizes the distinction between clients, customers, and stakeholders. Clients are the using departments that rely on procurement professionals for market expertise and transactional competence. They should be treated as clients, not customers. Customers are the constituents who expect a transparent and fair process, as well as efficient delivery of goods and services. Procurement professionals have an obligation to meet or exceed their expectations. Stakeholders include vendors, markets, special interest groups, and the press, among others. They demand a transparent and accessible process. The document encourages professionals to choose their words carefully and consistently, and for professional associations and academics to incorporate the proper language into their training materials. It also emphasizes the importance of cultivating relationships with clients, stakeholders, and customers to enhance their ability to serve and deliver service to the public. The author is Michael Bevis, the Chief Procurement Officer for the City of Naperville, Illinois.