Playing an active role

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is an increasingly important aspect of doing business for forward thinking companies. Many organisations are appointing corporate responsibility managers charged with delivering results against environmental policies laid down by the board.

Cutting carbon has become mainstream to the way companies now think. But ethical trading practices seem to be taking a little longer in getting embedded in the way companies think about their sourcing policies. That’s not to say things aren’t being done, there are many conscientious firms making great efforts.

However, a new interactive tool called The Buying Game, launched by Traidcraft and The Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply, may help buyers understand purchasing and supply chain issues.

Users negotiate the supply of the imaginary ‘dimble’ product. They have to decide what to do in a series of scenarios, for example when a supplier faces quality problems or a competitor reduces their retail price. Case studies of producers run throughout the game giving insight into the impact buying decisions can have on an organisation’s success.

With the damage an ill-considered decision can have on profitability and the brand, it’s worth having a look at www.thebuyinggame.org