Telecoms firm looks to Frictionless software to help instill best practices, achieve cost savings
Cambridge, MA — February 11, 2004 — Telephone & Data Systems (TDS) has selected and is using sourcing software from Frictionless Commerce as part of an initiative to improve its procurement processes.
One of the largest non-Bell communications companies in the United States, TDS provides wireless and local telecommunications service to more than 5.3 million customers through its business units U.S. Cellular and TDS Telecom.
TDS originally evaluated point solutions to perform requests for proposals (RFx) and auctions, but the company subsequently opted to deploy a more complete solution. Frictionless says that TDS selected the provider's Sourcing solution for its ability to help the company source a greater variety of goods and services and instill long-term sourcing best practices.
"Frictionless Sourcing helps us achieve long-term savings by increasing our spend under management and bringing a disciplined, consistent sourcing process to the organization," said Richard Lochner, director of purchasing at TDS Telecom. Lochner added that the company wanted to implement a solution that would help it move beyond sourcing just for the "low-hanging fruit."
TDS plans to track and capture all sourcing activity in its organizations through Frictionless Sourcing. The company will also exert more control over the tactical buying process by utilizing the software's RFQuick advanced module, which enables users across the organization to conduct quick bidding events with pre-approved vendors for services like commercial print and contingent labor, while at the same time providing those overseeing purchasing matters to view all sourcing-related events and processes taking place across the organization.
