Vendor Management Technology Selection
Problem
A regional based grocery retailer wanted to understand the feasibility and scope of work involved in implementing a digitally managed vendor portal. The company had purchased a technology solution to enable the portal several years prior, however, they lacked the in-house project management expertise for a successful implementation. The retailer understood that a significant amount of process change would be required to implement the portal, and that they needed a holistic view into the extent and impact of changes required. Excelerate was engaged to lead the project management effort as an expert in technology assessment, change management and process improvement.
Approach
Excelerate conducted a detailed discovery effort with the retailer, including complete evaluations of current and future states as well as recommendations for moving forward. Initially, the retailer was hesitant to review the current state but once Excelerate began the analysis, they realized a more thorough evaluation of process changes was critical. During the future state assessment, Excelerate reviewed the procured technology solution, considering its out-of-the-box functionality as well as adjustments necessary for their specific business needs. Excelerate also evaluated other tools in the market to confirm the right technology was in place for the portal.
Results
As a result of the discovery initiative, Excelerate recommended the retailer move forward with the technology solution they had previously purchased. Excelerate delivered a complete implementation plan to the project stakeholders that included a recommended approach, project timeline, and complete resource allocation. Excelerate brought a disciplined and methodical approach to the implementation planning, enabling the stakeholders to be confident in recommending the plan to their Executive Leadership Team.