e-Procurement and Online Marketplaces

e-Procurement, especially in the shape of online marketplaces, is currently one of the key e-Business applications, as it can generate interesting returns on investment. Because development of the relevant technology, standards and controls is still limited, and because relevant expertise and experience are scarce, organisations face serious challenges in their effective application of e-Procurement. This article summarises e-Procurement developments and pays attention to the potential benefits and risks involved in its application. A mySAP.com marketplace review is included, which explores the different areas of evaluation that need to be covered before management can be assured of an effective and reliable implementation.