PREFERENTIAL PROCUREMENT
The model was launched in 2001 with full
executive endorsement and saw the appointment of Dimension Data Executives, Sean Joubert and Derek Wilcocks, as project sponsors. A small team was subsequently recruited
to execute on the preferential procurement strategy and communicate it to the
business and Dimension Data suppliers.
The strategy was to initially focus on
“non-stock” supplies and services, targeting the vetting of Dimension Data’s
300 largest suppliers in the database, before moving on to qualifying small
entities (QSE’s) and micro enterprises. A number of internal projects quickly
followed to prepare Dimension Data’s ERP system for the complex reporting
that would be needed.
During this period, a number of changes
were introduced by government and the DTI, including the phase II release of
the Codes of Good Practice in December 2005. The constant changes to the
measurement of preferential procurement highlighted the need for a system
that was dynamic, flexible and easy to use.
To this effect, Dimension Data recently
commissioned the services of B1SA, which offers a versatile Broad-based BEE
management tool aimed at large organizations. The tool enables Dimension Data
to speed up the vetting of its large vendor base and to dynamically update the
BEE credentials of our suppliers as legislation changes. It also provides a
means of effectively measuring our day to day progress on the 7 elements of
transformation.
Without compromising on quality, price
and service, preferential procurement in Dimension Data has increased from
39.7% in 2004, to over 53% in 2005.
For more information, please contact Mr.
Sibusiso Buthelezi on 011 575 1330.
