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ProcuValue - Value creating procurement
The economic significance of procurements is constantly increasing. However, procurements are still often
examined from the short-term perspective emphasizing costs. This research project concentrates on the
long-term value of procurements. It is part of the Smart Procurement Programme of Finnish Funding
Agency for Innovation (Tekes). The research will highlight complex product/service combinations which are
often developed only after formal agreements. The strategic approach to procurement is desired by many
companies but it has proved to be difficult to put in practice.
The research project intends to develop new and widely applicable knowledge on managing strategic
procurement. It strives to facilitate sustainable procurement which is seen as valuable from the
perspectives of purchasers and suppliers. This approach can contribute to the long-term success of large
customer companies and small and medium-sized supplier companies.
The research project is implemented through three integrated phases:
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First, the prerequisites of strategic procurement are studied from the perspective of organizing the
procurement function.
Second, managerial practices supporting the strategic procurement approach are investigated.
Third, we will concentrate on different ways to produce and utilize quantitative information in
managing purchases and to demonstrate their long-term value.
The research is carried out as a qualitative multiple-case study including interviews, surveys and casespecific action research. The case companies are Metsä Group, Posti Group, Tieto and Valmet. The project
is carried out during 1 Jan 2015 – 30 Jun 2017 and its total budget is around 650,000€. The research is
funded by Tekes, Tampere University of Technology and the participating companies. Main researchers are
Professor Jussi Heikkilä and postdoctoral researcher Aki Jääskeläinen from the Department of Industrial
Management, Tampere University of Technology. In addition, 3-5 other researchers or research assistants
will work in the project. The international research partner is Sourcing Excellence research group directed
by Associate Professor Morten Munkgaard Møllerin from the Center for Industrial Production (CIP), Aalborg
University.
More information:
Tampere University of Technology, Department of Industrial Management
Postdoctoral researcher Aki Jääskeläinen, aki.jaaskelainen@tut.fi, +358 50 326 1113
Research director Professor Miia Martinsuo