What is the first step in the normal purchasing process?

The first step in the normal purchasing process is to review requirements. At this stage, it is essential to understand and clarify what is needed before taking any further actions. This involves gathering detailed information about the products or services required, including specifications, quantities, timelines, and budgets.

By thoroughly reviewing these requirements, buyers can ensure that they are clear about what they need, which sets the foundation for subsequent steps in the purchasing process. Without a comprehensive review, the purchasing process could lead to mismatches between needs and purchases, delays, or overspending.

In contrast, discussing requirements typically comes after the initial review, where stakeholders may share perspectives and come to a consensus. Constructing a contract and selecting a source are steps that take place later in the process, once the requirements have been clearly established and understood.