Which stage of the CIPS procurement cycle includes supplier selection?

The stage of the CIPS procurement cycle that includes supplier selection is Stage 6. During this phase, organizations evaluate potential suppliers based on established criteria and select the most suitable one for the project or contract. This selection process is critical as it involves assessing factors such as quality, price, delivery times, and reliability.

In Stage 6, various tools and techniques, such as supplier scorecards or lists of preferred suppliers, may be used to analyze capabilities and fit with the project's requirements. This ensures that the chosen supplier can deliver the goods or services to meet the organization's needs effectively, thereby minimizing risks and enhancing value. The focus on thorough evaluation at this stage underlines the importance of making informed decisions to build strong supplier relationships that can positively impact the outcome of the contract.

Understanding the supplier selection process within the procurement cycle is essential for effective commercial contracting and overall procurement strategy.