Rapid development in information technology has empowered purchasing and supply management by making information regarding supply sources, market trends and availability of materials and services immediately accessible. In addition, developments in the feld of e-commerce, e-procurement and electronic data interchange (EDI) have reduced the order cycle time sub-stantially. The consequences of these developments are that senior management has re-alised that the knowledge and skills available in purchasing and supply management can contribute to overall organisational strategies and, perhaps more importantly, purchasing and supply management has been able to conform to the new expectations of senior management. All these developments have enhanced the status of purchasing and supply management.

1 "There are several factors that have influenced the importance of purchasing and supply". Justify this statement by discussing information technology as a major factor. Provide an example of your choice to explain the factor. Note: - You are to explain the factor in your own words. - More marks will be awarded for providing an original example not found in your prescribed textbook or Learn. - Based on your findings, you are to indicate whether you agree with the statement or not with a brief justification