The One Point Analysts Are Missing? Technology Is IRRELEVANT!

Posted on January 19, 2025

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In a paper I wrote early in 2000, I stated that “technology is irrelevant in an increasingly process-driven world.”

Ask Chat GPT 4 simple questions, and then tell me why maps and quadrants and solution provider logos matter:

What were the top 10 procuretech solutions in 1995, 2005, 2015, and 2025?

Then, you can answer this question: What is the one constant in each of those four eras? The high generational implementation failure rate. Now, tell me how maps, quadrants, and solution provider logos matter.

THE TAKEAWAY:

“Without using strand commonality within an agent-based development and implementation model, AI, Generative AI, or Agentic AI integration into the procurement process will fail!” – https://bit.ly/3PGKVms

We must be careful not to confuse tech-led Equation-Based Agentic AI with human-led Agent-Based solution development and implementation.

What were the top 10 procuretech solutions in 1995?

In 1995, the procurement technology landscape was in its nascent stages, with organizations primarily relying on manual processes and basic digital tools. Comprehensive eProcurement platforms were not yet prevalent. However, a few pioneering solutions began to emerge, laying the groundwork for future advancements:

  1. American Management Systems (AMS) – Procurement Desktop-Defense (PD²):
    • Overview: AMS developed PD² as part of the U.S. Department of Defense’s Standard Procurement System initiative, aiming to standardize and automate procurement processes across various defense agencies.
    • Significance: This system marked one of the early large-scale attempts to digitize procurement within a major governmental organization.
    • Reference: The Standard Procurement System
  2. SAP R/3:
    • Overview: SAP’s R/3 system, introduced in the early 1990s, included modules for materials management and procurement, offering businesses an integrated approach to handle procurement alongside other enterprise functions.
    • Significance: As one of the first comprehensive ERP systems, SAP R/3 provided foundational procurement functionalities that many large organizations adopted.
    • Reference: SAP R/3
  3. Oracle Financials:
    • Overview: Oracle’s suite of financial applications included procurement capabilities, enabling organizations to manage purchasing activities within a broader financial management context.
    • Significance: Oracle Financials facilitated the integration of procurement data with financial analytics, enhancing decision-making processes.
    • Reference: Oracle Financials
  4. PeopleSoft:
    • Overview: PeopleSoft offered human resource and financial management solutions, with procurement functionalities that allowed organizations to streamline purchasing processes.
    • Significance: PeopleSoft’s user-friendly interface and modular approach made it a popular choice among mid-sized organizations.
    • Reference: PeopleSoft
  5. JD Edwards:
    • Overview: JD Edwards provided enterprise resource planning solutions with procurement modules that supported inventory management and purchasing.
    • Significance: Known for its flexibility, JD Edwards catered to various industries, including manufacturing and distribution.
    • Reference: JD Edwards
  6. Baan:
    • Overview: The Baan Corporation offered ERP solutions with procurement components, focusing on manufacturing and project-based industries.
    • Significance: Baan’s software emphasized integration across the supply chain, including procurement processes.
    • Reference: Baan Corporation
  7. Lawson Software:
    • Overview: Lawson provided enterprise software solutions with procurement applications tailored for healthcare and public services sectors.
    • Significance: Lawson’s industry-specific focus allowed for specialized procurement functionalities.
    • Reference: Lawson Software
  8. GEAC Computer Corporation:
    • Overview: GEAC offered financial and operational software solutions, including procurement modules for various industries.
    • Significance: GEAC’s systems were among the early adopters of integrating procurement with financial management.
    • Reference: GEAC Computer Corporation
  9. QAD Inc.:
    • Overview: QAD provided ERP solutions with procurement functionalities, primarily serving manufacturing companies.
    • Significance: QAD’s focus on manufacturing allowed for procurement processes tailored to production needs.
    • Reference: QAD Inc.
  10. ManMan by ASK Group:
    • Overview: ManMan was an early ERP system with procurement capabilities, used predominantly in manufacturing environments.
    • Significance: As one of the pioneering ERP systems, ManMan set the stage for future developments in integrated procurement solutions.
    • Reference: ManMan

These early solutions were instrumental in transitioning organizations from manual procurement processes to more automated and integrated systems, setting the stage for the sophisticated ProcureTech landscape we see today.

What were the top 10 procuretech solutions in 2005?

In 2005, the ProcureTech landscape featured several prominent solutions that facilitated procurement processes for organizations. Notable among these were:

  1. Ariba Buyer: Ariba was a leading provider of e-procurement solutions, offering platforms that enabled organizations to manage their procurement processes efficiently. Wikipedia
  2. SAP Supplier Relationship Management (SRM): SAP introduced its SRM solution in 2005, providing tools to manage supplier relationships and procurement activities. Wikipedia
  3. Oracle Procurement: Following Oracle’s acquisition of PeopleSoft in 2004, Oracle expanded its procurement solutions, integrating them into its broader ERP systems. Wikipedia
  4. Commerce One: Known for its e-procurement software, Commerce One facilitated online procurement processes, although it faced challenges during the dot-com bubble burst.
  5. PeopleSoft eProcurement: Before its acquisition by Oracle, PeopleSoft offered eProcurement solutions that streamlined purchasing processes for organizations.
  6. JD Edwards Procurement: JD Edwards provided procurement modules as part of its ERP solutions, catering to various industries’ needs.
  7. i2 Technologies: Specializing in supply chain management, i2 Technologies offered procurement solutions that integrated with broader supply chain processes.
  8. Manugistics: Focused on supply chain and logistics, Manugistics provided procurement tools to enhance sourcing and supplier management.
  9. Emptoris: Emptoris delivered strategic sourcing and procurement solutions, helping organizations manage spend and supplier relationships.
  10. Proactis: Offering spend control and e-procurement solutions, Proactis enabled organizations to manage procurement activities effectively.

These solutions played pivotal roles in automating and optimizing procurement processes, laying the groundwork for the advanced ProcureTech tools available today.

What were the top 10 procuretech solutions in 2015?

In 2015, the procurement technology landscape featured several prominent solutions that organizations leveraged to streamline their procurement processes. Notable among these were:

  1. SAP Ariba:
    • Overview: SAP Ariba provided comprehensive procurement and supply chain solutions, facilitating efficient supplier collaboration and spend management.
    • Significance: As a leader in the procurement software market, SAP Ariba offered tools that enhanced procurement efficiency and supplier relationships.
    • Reference: Top 20 supply chain management software suppliers, 2015
  2. Oracle Procurement Cloud:
    • Overview: Oracle’s procurement solutions integrated with their ERP systems, offering modules for sourcing, supplier management, and procurement contracts.
    • Significance: Oracle’s comprehensive suite enabled organizations to manage procurement activities within a unified platform.
    • Reference: Top 20 supply chain management software suppliers, 2015
  3. JDA Software Group:
    • Overview: JDA provided supply chain management solutions, including procurement functionalities that helped organizations optimize their sourcing strategies.
    • Significance: JDA’s tools were instrumental in enhancing procurement planning and execution.
    • Reference: Top 20 supply chain management software suppliers, 2015
  4. GEP SMART:
    • Overview: GEP SMART offered a unified procurement platform encompassing spend analysis, sourcing, contract management, and supplier management.
    • Significance: GEP’s platform was recognized for its comprehensive capabilities in managing procurement processes.
    • Reference: Top Procurement Technology Providers – 2015
  5. Coupa:
    • Overview: Coupa provided cloud-based spend management solutions, including procurement, invoicing, and expense management.
    • Significance: Coupa’s user-friendly interface and scalability made it a popular choice among various organizations.
    • Reference: Top Procurement Technology Providers – 2015
  6. SciQuest (now Jaggaer):
    • Overview: SciQuest offered cloud-based business automation solutions for spend management, focusing on procurement for higher education and life sciences sectors.
    • Significance: Their specialized solutions catered to the unique needs of specific industries.
    • Reference: Top Procurement Technology Providers – 2015
  7. Zycus:
    • Overview: Zycus provided a comprehensive suite of procurement performance solutions, addressing both strategic and operational aspects of procurement.
    • Significance: Zycus’s tools were instrumental in enhancing procurement efficiency and effectiveness.
    • Reference: Top Procurement Technology Providers – 2015
  8. Taulia:
    • Overview: Taulia enabled organizations to strengthen supplier relationships through dynamic discounting and supply chain finance solutions.
    • Significance: Their platform facilitated improved cash flow management and supplier collaboration.
    • Reference: Top Procurement Technology Providers – 2015
  9. Tradeshift:
    • Overview: Tradeshift offered a supplier collaboration platform connecting buyers and suppliers, streamlining processes such as invoicing and procurement.
    • Significance: Their network-based approach facilitated efficient supplier onboarding and interaction.
    • Reference: Top Procurement Technology Providers – 2015
  10. Proactis:
    • Overview: Proactis provided spend control and eProcurement solutions, enabling organizations to manage procurement activities effectively.
    • Significance: Their tools helped organizations achieve greater visibility and control over their procurement processes.
    • Reference: Top Procurement Technology Providers – 2015

These solutions were instrumental in transforming procurement practices, offering tools that enhanced efficiency, compliance, and strategic sourcing capabilities.

What were the top 10 procuretech solutions in 2025?

As of January 19, 2025, the procurement technology (ProcureTech) landscape has been significantly transformed by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and data analytics. While specific rankings of the top ProcureTech solutions can vary based on organizational needs and industry sectors, several platforms have emerged as leaders due to their innovative capabilities and widespread adoption. Here are ten prominent ProcureTech solutions in 2025:

  1. SAP Ariba
    • Overview: SAP Ariba continues to be a comprehensive procurement and supply chain solution, integrating advanced AI to enhance supplier collaboration and spend management.
    • Key Features:
      • AI-driven analytics for strategic sourcing.
      • Enhanced user experience with intuitive interfaces.
      • Robust supplier risk management tools.
    • Reference: ProcureTech PREDICTIONS 2025
  2. Coupa
    • Overview: Coupa offers a unified spend management platform, leveraging AI to provide predictive insights and end-to-end procurement automation.
    • Key Features:
      • Predictive analytics for spend optimization.
      • Seamless integration with other enterprise systems.
      • User-friendly mobile interfaces for on-the-go access.
    • Reference: ProcureTech PREDICTIONS 2025
  3. GEP SMART
    • Overview: GEP SMART is a unified procurement platform that utilizes AI and machine learning to streamline procurement processes and supplier management.
    • Key Features:
      • AI-powered contract management.
      • Advanced spend analysis capabilities.
      • Cloud-based platform ensuring scalability and flexibility.
    • Reference: ProcureTech PREDICTIONS 2025
  4. Jaggaer
    • Overview: Jaggaer provides comprehensive source-to-pay solutions, incorporating AI to enhance procurement efficiency and supplier relationships.
    • Key Features:
      • Intelligent supplier management tools.
      • Automated procurement workflows.
      • Real-time analytics and reporting.
    • Reference: ProcureTech PREDICTIONS 2025
  5. Ivalua
    • Overview: Ivalua offers a complete suite of procurement solutions, focusing on flexibility and user-centric design to meet diverse organizational needs.
    • Key Features:
      • Comprehensive supplier risk assessment tools.
      • Customizable procurement workflows.
      • Integration capabilities with various ERP systems.
    • Reference: ProcureTech PREDICTIONS 2025
  6. Oracle Procurement Cloud
    • Overview: Oracle’s cloud-based procurement solution integrates AI to provide strategic sourcing and procurement analytics.
    • Key Features:
      • AI-driven supplier recommendations.
      • Comprehensive procurement analytics dashboard.
      • Seamless integration with Oracle’s suite of cloud applications.
    • Reference: ProcureTech PREDICTIONS 2025
  7. Basware
    • Overview: Basware specializes in networked procure-to-pay solutions, emphasizing transparency and efficiency in procurement processes.
    • Key Features:
      • Automated invoice processing.
      • Comprehensive spend visibility tools.
      • Supplier collaboration platform.
    • Reference: ProcureTech PREDICTIONS 2025
  8. Proactis
    • Overview: Proactis provides spend management solutions, focusing on procurement control and supplier engagement.
    • Key Features:
      • Spend control and visibility.
      • Supplier information management.
      • Procurement compliance monitoring.
    • Reference: ProcureTech PREDICTIONS 2025
  9. Zycus
    • Overview: Zycus offers a suite of procurement performance solutions, integrating AI to enhance spend analysis and contract management.
    • Key Features:
      • AI-powered spend classification.
      • Automated contract lifecycle management.
      • Supplier performance tracking.
    • Reference: ProcureTech PREDICTIONS 2025
  10. GEP NEXXE
    • Overview: GEP NEXXE is a supply chain management platform that integrates procurement functions, offering end-to-end visibility and control.

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