A guide for schools in finding the best educational supplier

A guide for schools in finding the best educational supplier

It's a new year and a chance for you to start afresh; at times like this when budgets are stretched, it is even more imperative that you find an educational supplier that cannot only provide value for money but also provide you with exceptional service. Here are some suggestions of things to consider.

Before you even begin to look at suppliers make a list of exactly what you need. A list will ensure that you only purchase what you require and that you take into consideration items that are not consumed within the year or can be recycled and reused. This simple practise will save you time and money.

Flicking through catalogues and comparing prices from different suppliers can be time consuming and frustrating; away to overcome this is through the use of an e-procurement system. E-portals such as SIMS, RM and Premier Finance contain the same products and prices as a supplier's catalogue but allow a school to search and order electronically saving time and resources. E-portals also allow customers to compare the prices from a number of different suppliers ensuring they receive the best value for money.

When looking for suppliers don't just take into consideration the price of the items in your basket, but service charges too. An additional delivery and administration fee can often send your costs soaring. Look out for educational suppliers that offer free delivery and a low charge for returns; helping to keep you within your budget.

Another way to save time and money is to look out for a 'one stop shop'. Suppliers that offer a wide range of products give you the opportunity to order everything you need from one place; be it consumables such as glue and toilet paper, curricular items such as maths, science and English resources and durable items such as furniture and electronics. A one stop shop takes away the time needed to place many small orders from a number of suppliers and allows you to consolidate you costs as only one order needs to be made equating to a single delivery charge.

Consider switching to greener products; there are a wide variety of products available such as recycled exercise books and energy saving light bulbs. Switching to green will not only mean that your purchases have less impact on the environment but some educational suppliers do their own 'green' range that can often be cheaper than the leading brand, saving you money.

Finally never underestimate word of mouth and the experience of other individuals in your profession. Your colleagues who have experience with an educational supplier can provide you with the insight of their experience and whether it was positive or negative. This will help you see beyond the cost of an order, allowing you to be confident in the service you will receive. Ask questions like: does the supplier offer next day delivery, a service promise and deliver your items when you need them in the condition you expect?

In summary when choosing an educational supplier make sure you know what you want and then shop around to find a price and service that is suitable for you; ensuring that you find reliable service, choice and value within your budget.

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