I’ve been using AI almost every day for the past two years, and here’s the truth: in the beginning, it felt a lot like managing a brand-new intern—AI was full of enthusiasm, eager to help, but with very little wisdom. Back then, when I asked AI to complete a task, the results were maybe…
If there’s one thing buyers consistently excel at, it’s preparation. Most buyers walk into negotiations armed with data, cost models, supplier analysis, power assessments, volume history, economic indicators, and a clear understanding of the organizational objectives. Preparation is rarely the problem. But here’s the pattern…
Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming one of the most powerful tools available to today’s buyers. It can analyze data, summarize trends, accelerate research, and improve preparation for supplier discussions. Used correctly, it strengthens judgment and gives buyers a meaningful edge. But when AI is used…
A new Economist Impact study — The Resilient Edge: Procurement in an Era of Polycrisis (2025) — reveals a profession under pressure. Two-thirds of CxOs now rank geopolitical instability and supply chain disruption as their top risk. Inflation and tariffs continue to erode margins. While…
APD recently hosted the 2025 ProcureForce User Conference, bringing together procurement leaders, customers, and our team to exchange ideas and share how organizations are getting more value from the platform. The event also gave users a direct role in shaping what comes next. Key themes…
If you’re a purchasing leader, you know the rhythm by now. Each year, the savings drumbeat begins earlier than we’d like. Over the past few years, many of us have been consumed by negotiating tariffs, battling inflation, and managing supply disruptions. Those fights were necessary….
This year, tariffs have reshaped the cost structures of many manufacturing supply chains. Too often, I’ve seen buyers accept supplier pass-throughs of tariff costs without pushback—or, just as problematic, they made a single attempt to negotiate an offset and gave up when the supplier resisted….
Buyers are under constant pressure to evaluate supplier quotes, justify cost increases, and negotiate effectively. Too often, suppliers provide incomplete information or push back on requests for detail, leaving buyers with little leverage. Chat-based AI (like ChatGPT) can help. By using well-structured prompts, buyers can…
Years ago, I attended a Sandler Sales Training session that left an impression. One specific concept stuck with me: In a sales conversation, the prospect should be talking 70% of the time. Sandler’s logic is clear—buyers don’t buy because of what you say. They buy…
The global tariff front is shifting again—and fast. On July 9, 2025, President Trump issued fresh tariff letters to emerging economies like the Philippines, Moldova, Iraq, Brunei, Algeria, Libya, Sri Lanka, plus major materials and goods categories—starting August 1. For example, a 50% levy on…