The co-op was shortlisted in the CIPS Australasia Procurement Professional Awards for the most effective use of innovation in procurement. Inventory analyst and buyer Jason Fraser, pictured, with procurement specialist John Zhang and procurement manager Wendy Keall, designed and built the database in a few weeks using FileMaker, an online platform designed to create custom solutions.
Previously they were unable to store and view data in one system, making it difficult and time-consuming to pull supplier data together, Fraser said.
The new database streamlined processes with information made transparent and easy to audit.
Fraser said the supply management tool had exceeded expectations and created more efficient work practices across the company.