Adversarial vs. Collaborative Procurement

Adversarial procurement occurs when buyers and suppliers view each other as competitors, aiming to maximize their own benefits, often leading to conflicts and a focus on negotiating the lowest prices. Collaborative procurement, on the other hand, involves buyers and suppliers working together towards mutual goals, fostering trust and long-term partnerships. This approach emphasizes shared interests, like innovation and efficiency, and can lead to better quality products and services. Essentially, adversarial procurement prioritizes competition, while collaborative procurement values cooperation for mutual gain.