Missing Skills Destroy Iron Triangle of IS Purchasing

Abstract

The required purchasing skills have been evolving due to supply chain globalization, sustainability, and environmental requirements. Modern purchasing skills are also influenced by the expanding adaptation of complex Information Systems (IS) in enterprises. Complex technology purchasing requires the management of multiple organizations and unique competences, hence the needed IS purchasing skills required studies from a different angle. Compared to previous studies, the purpose of this study was to identify the skills required from a purchaser to manage complex IS purchases and address their risks. In-depth qualitative research reveals that the IS purchaser is required to understand SW methodologies and possess strong interorganizational skills in addition to traditional purchasing skills in order to run successful IS purchases. Based on the findings, the study proposes additional technical and project methodological training for educators and purchasing professionals to succeed in IS purchases.