About the PCF Gain the inside edge from the very best industry experience and practice
Purchasing Cards Can Deliver Realisable Cost Savings Today
The very significant cost reductions available from automating procurement, not only strategic but also Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO), have been recognised for some time. But, with the exception of a few major corporations and some early adopters, the anticipated rush to e-procurement has simply not occurred as organisations come to terms with the immaturity of the technology and the true scale of the implementation issues. However, the purchasing card has been recognised as the natural first step for most organisations because it delivers a major portion of the benefits in a very straightforward way and at low cost. Purchasing cards also provides the key, first level, management information essential for proper analysis. The Purchasing card not only offers purchasers cost savings and management benefits, it also offers benefits to suppliers, not least in terms of the speed and simplicity of settlement which brings definite cash flow advantages. Purchasing cards are also of value in the public sector. In the UK the Office of Government Commerce (OGC) is leading the way, demonstrating how to generate significant cost savings, as well as co-ordinating and supporting a range of purchasing card initiatives across central and local government. Why a Forum?
Bringing card-based payment into purchasing creates the potential for very significant cost savings, but there is little in the way of information or guidance as to how or what to do. In addition there is a real need and demand for independent information with a means of sharing experience and best practice in a neutral environment. An independent forum provides that environment and the necessary support infrastructure. A forum also offers a rich source of information and learning for individuals and organisations. In addition forums provide a vehicle for debating and taking forward key industry issues, such as standards. The focus is on practicality in order to enable businesses to make better decisions and be better able to undertake high quality implementations, resulting in increased cost savings that go straight to the bottom line. Aims and Objectives
To provide a neutral forum for: - The exchange of information and best practice as well as learning
- Networking and interaction with key industry colleagues
- Developing industry thinking on issues such as standards
Member Services - Attendance at 4 main PCF meetings
- Receipt of e-procurement-related news updates
- Receipt of all meeting presentation materials and meeting minutes
- Membership of PCF Working Groups
- Access to member contact details
- Hot-line support from PCF offices
Member Benefits - Gain in-depth knowledge of the Purchasing Card industry and players
- Learn best practice and gain from the experience of industry leaders
- See and learn about new industry developments
- Meet and network regularly in an un-pressured, non-sales environment
- Participate in the debate on the development of the industry
- Learn how to apply the benefits of Purchasing Cards to your organisation
- Gain from others' experience through case studies
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