Transcript from meeting with Mikael Ekinge at Siemens Energy in Sweden.

Q: Two groups from Siemens procurement function tested the Learn How to Source 10-week basic procurement training course. What is the reason for that?

Mikael Ekinge at Siemens Energy answer: The reason there were two groups is that we want to test the program in English and Swedish. Then we were curious about the training concept and try to continuously build competence among our employees. We also thought about whether the program could be part of our Introduction program.

Q: Regarding the concept, LHTS calls it Microlearning where recorded lessons (which are streamed when it suits the participant from the online platform) are combined with mentoring e-meetings. How did it turn out among Siemens’ participants? 

Mikael answer: Very good. Participants appreciated course content, the length of online lessons (approx. 30 min), the support provided and discussions during e-meetings. Participation could take place from the office or from home, which is in line with how we work now. The employee lost minimal working time and was able to integrate the course into the working day. However, one must be careful to balance time between the usual tasks and the courses.

Although the lessons are online and available 24/7, it takes time to absorb the knowledge. Also, we noticed that the product is new and under development as the recording in quality and presentation were (in some cases) of a simpler kind. The knowledge delivered was undoubtedly relevant and valuable. The entire delivery process provides a very good value relative to the time invested and the price of the course.

Q: Will you integrate the LHTS program into your introduction program for all new hires to the function.

Mikael Ekinge at Siemens Energy answer: We had some more junior resources, senior buyers and managers participate in the course to get answers to that question. No, it’s a basic course. We see the following applications:

• Introducing staff from other function who quickly need to learn the procurement basics.
• Expanding single role buyers (most often operative buyers) as a first step towards next step in career.
• New staff with no procurement experience. 

We also see the possibility to assign single courses as instructions/inspiration to individuals. 

Q: What is the overall impression of the program?

Mikael Ekinge at Siemens Energy answer: Our participants gave the course 4 out of 5 in average. Not bad given we are one of the first teams trying the program. But there are certainly room for improvement, and we have provided constructive feedback Learn How to Source can build upon. 

Q: Would you recommend the program?

Mikael Ekinge at Siemens Energy answer: Yes, as a basic procurement program. The concept is very strong and, if the participant has the time and energy to absorb the new knowledge, you will get high value in return. It is however important that the participants are given time in busy calendars to focus on the training, but also that the participants really use the opportunity to learn.

Program information LHTS 10-week basic level program

LHTS 10-Week Basic Procurement Training

Join our comprehensive 10-week training course for an in-depth understanding of procurement fundamentals.

Information at Utbildning Inköp (In Swedish).

Learn the procurement basics with Learn How to Source. Earn a Procurement Certificate by completing all online courses and written + verbal exams.

If you’re looking to advance your procurement career and gain the knowledge and skills you need to succeed, the LHTS 10 week Basic Procurement Certificate is the perfect choice. This comprehensive program is designed to give you a solid foundation in the fundamentals of procurement, including operative-, tactical, and management processes.

The LHTS 10 week procurement basic Procurement Certificate is a fully online program that can be completed at your own pace. With a combination of online courses, written exams, and verbal exams, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the procurement process and develop the skills you need to succeed in this dynamic and challenging field.

What sets the LHTS 10 week procurement basic Procurement Certificate apart from other procurement programs is its focus on real-world skills and practical knowledge. You’ll learn from experienced procurement professionals who have worked in a variety of industries, giving you a broad perspective on procurement best practices and strategies.

So why wait? If you’re ready to take your procurement career to the next level, the LHTS 10 week procurement basic Procurement Certificate is the perfect choice. Sign up today and start your journey towards procurement success!

Key Features:

Course schedule is developed by participant and LHTS.

• The program is on a basic level. Basic level is for those who are new to the Procurement area or have been working within a single role within procurement and want to understand the different roles, and its processes, in more depth. You learn the language of Procurement.
• The program is based on LHTS online courses combined with experienced senior program management which run regular sessions to congest the knowledge presented and discuss how to convert theory into practice.
• The program is part-time (approx 10-20% of FTE), distance- and web based. Online courses are available anytime and meetings with program management are e-meetings. You can, during the program, contact your mentor for advice via chat, mail or e-meeting.
• Each online course has a quiz and a course completion certificate. At the end of the program each participant’s knowledge is verified via a written and a verbal test. All activities need to be completed to receive the program certificate.

In short, after completing the program you have an experienced procurement executive telling the world; you have the skills to become a professional buyer.

Meet Mikael Ekinge at Siemens Energy at LinkedIn

Visit and follow Mikael Ekinge at Siemens Energy at LinkedIn.

About Learn How to Source

Learn How to Source is an online platform based in Sweden, offering a range of procurement courses accessible globally. It serves as a community where procurement experts share their knowledge through online courses, designed for various experience levels from introductory to expert. Courses are concise, about 30 minutes each, and cover different aspects of procurement, tailored for different buyer roles. The courses focus on practical knowledge, presented by seasoned professionals, and include quizzes and certificates. They can be accessed from any device, emphasizing micro learning for flexibility and efficiency.

Note: Illustration to blogpost “Meeting with Mikael Ekinge at Siemens Energy” is the provided by Mikael.