TRG Blog

Making the Case for Automated P2P to the C-suite: A Purchase Manager's Guide

Written by Rick Yvanovich | Fri, Aug 30, 2024

As a Purchase Manager, you have seen firsthand the impact manual procurement processes can have on an organisation. Can you rise to the occasion and become an advocate for an automated P2P (procure-to-pay) solution?

In this blog, we will explore the benefits of automation and provide guidance on how to make the case for an automated P2P solution for your C-suite executives.

Read more: Is Procurement Missing Out on the AI Revolution?

Contents

Overview of Automated P2P 

Automated P2P solutions are designed to streamline the procurement process, from requisition to payment. By leveraging technology, organisations can eliminate manual errors, reduce processing times, and improve supplier relationships.

Automated P2P solutions typically include features such as: 

  • Electronic requisitioning and approval workflows
  • Automated purchase order generation and transmission
  • Electronic invoicing and payment processing
  • Real-time spend analytics and reporting

By automating these processes, organisations can achieve significant cost savings, improve efficiency, and enhance supplier relationships.

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Making the case for Automated P2P to the CEO 

When presenting the case for an automated P2P solution to your CEO or General Manager, focus on the strategic benefits:

  • Improved efficiency: Automated P2P solutions can reduce processing times by up to 70%, freeing up staff to focus on more strategic activities.
  • Enhanced supplier relationships: By streamlining payment processes, organisations can improve supplier relationships and negotiate better terms.
  • Increased visibility: Real-time spend analytics provide visibility into procurement spend, enabling data-driven decision-making.
  • Cost savings: Automated P2P solutions can help reduce costs by up to 10% by minimising manual errors and maximising discounts.

Emphasise how an automated P2P solution can help drive business growth, improve competitiveness, and enhance the organisation's reputation.

Read more: Understanding the Changing Dynamics of Procurement in Hospitality

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Making the Case for Automated P2P to the CFO 

When presenting the case to your CFO or Financial Controller, focus on the financial benefits: 

  • Cost savings: Automated P2P solutions can help avoid overspending by 15% through automated contract enforcement and spending visibility.
  • Improved cash flow: By streamlining payment processes, your business can improve cash flow and reduce the risk of late payment fees.
  • Enhanced financial control: Automated P2P solutions provide real-time visibility into procurement spend, enabling better financial planning and budgeting.
  • Reduced risk: Automated P2P solutions can help organisations reduce the risk of fraud and non-compliance.

Highlight the financial benefits of an automated P2P solution, including cost savings, improved cash flow, and enhanced financial control.

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Making the Case for Automated P2P to the COO

When presenting the case to your COO, focus on the operational benefits: 

  • Streamlined Processes: Automated P2P solutions can reduce procurement cycle times by up to 25%, leading to faster project completion and improved cash flow.
  • Enhanced collaboration: Automated P2P solutions can improve collaboration between procurement, finance, and other departments.
  • Increased visibility: Real-time spend analytics provide visibility into procurement spend, enabling data-driven decision-making.
  • Reduced errors: Automated P2P solutions can help reduce manual errors and improve data accuracy.

Emphasise how an automated P2P solution can help improve operational efficiency, collaboration, and visibility.

Read more: These 8 Tech Breakthroughs May Redefine Your Supply Chain

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Making the Case for Automated P2P to the CIO 

When presenting the case to your CIO, focus on the technical benefits:

  • Integration: Automated P2P solutions can integrate with existing ERP or financial management systems, reducing the need for manual data entry and improving data accuracy.
  • Scalability: Automated P2P solutions can scale to meet the needs of your growing organisation, reducing the need for costly upgrades.
  • Security: Automated P2P solutions can provide enhanced security features, such as encryption and access controls, to protect sensitive data.
  • Compliance: Automated P2P solutions can help your organisation comply with regulatory requirements like GDPR and SOX.

Highlight the technical benefits of an automated P2P solution, including integration, scalability, security, and compliance.

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In conclusion, making the case for an automated P2P solution requires a tailored approach, depending on the audience. By focusing on the strategic, financial, operational, and technical benefits, you can build a compelling case for automation and help your organisation achieve significant cost savings, improve efficiency, and enhance supplier relationships. 

Still need more convincing? Download our infographic and learn more about the power of an automated P2P solution today!