ELECTRI International – The Foundation for Electrical Construction and the National Association of Electrical Distributors announce publication of a jointly funded study – Agile Procurement and its Role in Adding Value.

The research on Electrical Distribution Construction was conducted by California Polytechnic State University, under the leadership of Principal Investigator, Professor Lonny Simonian, PE, PMP.

The thesis for the research is that partnering and planning can build profitable relationships throughout the electrical construction industry. The goal of agile procurement is to lower costs by reducing job site material handling and other waste rather than focusing upon reducing the direct cost of materials. Agile procurement adds value by engaging all supply chain members in jointly managing the flow of material to create greater efficiency of operations.

This study examines the use of agile procurement within an electrical manufacturing, distribution, and construction supply chain to provide readers with a greater understanding of:

• What services are most widely requested?

• Who is currently charging for added services?

• How can these services be monetized?

• What are some ways agile procurement can deliver greater value to manufacturers, distributors and contractors?

Members of both the National Electrical Contractors Association and the National Association of Electrical Distributors participated in a survey so investigators would gain a better understanding of their approach to materials management, services, and delivery options. Along with the results of the survey, this report presents case study reviews that focus on opportunities for contractors to utilize manufacturer and distributor value added services.