Article ID: | iaor20082618 |
Country: | United Kingdom |
Volume: | 16 |
Issue: | 2 |
Start Page Number: | 178 |
End Page Number: | 191 |
Publication Date: | Apr 2007 |
Journal: | European Journal of Information Systems |
Authors: | Hackney Ray, Jones Steve, Lsch Andrea |
Keywords: | behaviour, bidding, performance, internet |
The research in this paper explores how the general context and management information and communication behaviour in electronic Reverse Auctions (e-RAs) may impact on organizational efficiency to ensure procurement excellence. There is evidence that e-RAs improve procurement success by achieving considerable price reductions of externally sourced goods through direct, real-time and transparent competition between suppliers. This paper investigates the conditions for the successful adoption of e-RAs in the U.K. public sector generally and Welsh Unitary Authorities (WUAs) in particular. The research illustrates how e-RAs can support the procurement function and thus, can contribute to organizational efficiency in the context of electronic government (e-Government). A national U.K. survey and an exploratory case analysis in a WUA (Conwy) were undertaken to determine the conditions for the e-RA process. The findings underline the critical importance of the adequate preparation of the e-RA through appropriate information and communication behaviour. Consequently, the paper identifies a set of enabling factors and corresponding guidelines that could be used for the successful adoption of e-RAs in the public sector. The contribution of the research will be of benefit to both academics and practitioners engaged in procurement research and implementation.