Performance Parity Isn’t About Technology — It’s About People

Posted on January 13, 2026

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By Jon Hansen | Procurement Insights | January 2026


The Insight

Technology is not, nor will it ever be, the great equalizer that elevates procurement’s performance to a “best-of-breed” level by its mere introduction into an organization. Unfortunately, that is what analysts, consultants, and solution providers sell — parity where none exists.


Why This Matters


The Parity Illusion

“If you buy what the leaders buy, you’ll perform like the leaders perform.”

But Virginia didn’t succeed because of Ariba. Virginia succeeded because they were ready for Ariba.


The Bottom Line

Technology can accelerate procurement. Methodology determines whether it accelerates success or failure.

That lesson hasn’t changed — only the speed has.

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Posted in: Commentary