Procurement is a critical function in every organization, ensuring that goods and services are acquired at the best possible prices, delivered on time, and meet the organization’s needs. The importance of procurement has only increased in recent years as businesses have become more globalized, and supply chains have become more complex. Online procurement courses provide an excellent opportunity for professionals to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in this critical role. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top procurement online courses and how to choose online or onsite delivery.

What to consider when choosing between onsite and online procurement courses?

When deciding between an online procurement course and an onsite classroom course, several factors should be considered to ensure that the chosen mode of learning aligns with your personal and professional needs.

Convenience and Flexibility

Online Course: Offers the flexibility to learn at your own pace and schedule. Ideal for working professionals or those with other commitments.

Onsite Classroom: Requires attendance at a specific location and time, which can be challenging for those with less flexible schedules.

Learning Environment

Online Course: Provides a digital learning environment that can be personalized to your learning style.

Onsite Classroom: Offers a traditional classroom setting that facilitates direct interaction with instructors and peers.

Course Content and Materials

Online Course: Typically includes a range of multimedia content like videos, podcasts, online texts, and interactive quizzes, .

Onsite Classroom: Relies more on face-to-face lectures, cases and printed materials.

Networking Opportunities

Online Course: Networking is often virtual, which can be less immediate but more global in reach.

Onsite Classroom: Allows for direct, personal networking with local professionals.

Cost-Effectiveness

Online Course: Often more affordable with no commuting or accommodation costs.

Onsite Classroom: May involve additional costs such as travel and lodging.

Personalization

Online Course: Can be more easily tailored to individual learning paces and styles.

Onsite Classroom: Offers a one-size-fits-all approach that might not suit everyone.

Support and Feedback

Online Course: Support is typically provided via emails, forums, or chat.

Onsite Classroom: Offers immediate, face-to-face feedback and support.

Learn How to Source

LHTS provide procurement courses to buyers world wide in an affordable and accessible way for everyday learning. Experts like EFFSO, Jon Kihlman, Aurora Dawn Benton, Hans Nilsson, Paul Rogers and many more to come, share their experience and knowledge in an affordable and accessible package adding further experience and knowledge to the procurement knowledge ecosystem.

Micro learning, Next step concept, full program offering and immediate access to courses via streaming are differentiators at Learn How to Source. Learn more in the free Introduction course regarding the offering of online procurement courses.

Procurement Academy

Procurement Academy is an online training platform that offers a wide range of procurement courses designed to help professionals build their skills and knowledge. The platform has a library of over 150 courses, covering a wide range of topics such as procurement strategy, negotiation, contract management, and supplier management.

One of the unique features of Procurement Academy is its use of gamification to enhance the learning experience. The platform’s courses are designed as games, where learners can earn points, badges, and rewards for completing courses and achieving specific learning objectives.

Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)

CIPS is the leading global professional body for procurement and supply management, with over 200,000 members worldwide. The institute offers a range of online courses, from introductory level to advanced qualifications.

CIPS courses are designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of procurement and supply chain management, and they are recognized by employers worldwide. One of the standout features of CIPS courses is the opportunity for learners to network with other professionals in the field through online forums and events.

Udemy

Udemy is a popular online learning platform that offers over 155,000 courses across a wide range of subjects, including procurement. Udemy’s procurement courses are taught by industry experts and cover topics such as sourcing, contract management, and supplier relationship management.

One of the standout features of Udemy is its flexible learning options. Learners can choose from a wide range of courses, and many courses offer self-paced learning, allowing learners to fit their studies around their work and personal commitments.

Coursera

Coursera is another popular online learning platform that offers a wide range of courses, including several focused on procurement. Coursera’s procurement courses are taught by leading industry experts and cover topics such as procurement strategy, negotiation, and contract management.

One of the standout features of Coursera is its emphasis on collaborative learning. Learners can participate in online forums and collaborate with other learners from around the world, allowing them to gain insights and perspectives from different cultures and backgrounds.

How Learn How to Source differ from regular course providers: 

• LHTS offer unique programs, connecting learners with seasoned procurement professionals for real-world insights and career advice.
• LHTS online courses is only 5 minutes away. Choose your course and start streaming
• LHTS online courses are designed for maximum convenience, with mobile-friendly content accessible 24/7, allowing learners to engage with the material whenever and wherever they prefer.
• LHTS courses are continually updated and provide exclusive downloadable resources and tools.
• LHTS provide competitive pricing with no hidden costs, ensuring quality education that is both affordable and accessible.
• LHTS adaptive learning technology tailors the course content to the learner’s progress and understanding, offering a personalized learning journey through the Next step offering.
• LHTS combine the best of both worlds by offering interactive online forums and live Q&A sessions in the programs, bridging the gap between online convenience and classroom interactivity.

Guide: How to Select Between Buying an Onsite Course and an Online Course

A guide which will get you through the decision-making process when selecting between onsite and online procurement courses. Both formats offer distinct benefits and are suited for different learning environments and objectives. This guide will help you evaluate which course format aligns best with your needs.

1. Learning Objectives and Outcomes

Onsite Courses

• Best for hands-on, interactive learning: Onsite courses often incorporate group activities, real-time problem-solving, and immediate feedback.
• Enhanced networking opportunities: In-person interactions allow participants to engage with instructors and peers, building stronger professional networks.
• Complex, high-engagement topics: Some subjects may be more effectively taught in person, especially those requiring practical demonstrations or workshops.

Online Courses

• Self-paced and flexible: Online courses are ideal for individuals who prefer learning at their own pace or have a busy schedule.
• Broad topic coverage: Many online platforms offer a wide range of subjects, which can make it easier to find courses tailored to specific, niche topics.
• Consistent learning outcomes: Online courses often have structured content and recorded materials, ensuring that learners receive consistent information.

Key Questions:

• Are your learning objectives centered on hands-on practice or conceptual understanding?
• Do you need real-time interactions with experts, or is self-paced learning more appealing?

2. Time and Flexibility

Onsite Courses

• Fixed schedule: Onsite courses generally require participants to commit to specific dates and times.
• Time away from work: Participants may need to take time off or adjust their schedules to attend the course in person.
• Structured sessions: This format may be beneficial for those who prefer a clear, scheduled approach to learning without distractions.

Online Courses

• Highly flexible: Online courses offer the flexibility to learn anywhere, anytime. This is ideal for busy professionals or those with tight schedules.
• Reduced travel time: No commuting is required, making it convenient and time-efficient.
• Asynchronous options: Many online courses allow for learning at any time of day, fitting into varied time zones and personal schedules.

Key Questions:

• Can you commit to a fixed schedule for an onsite course, or do you need more flexibility in timing?
• Is avoiding travel time important to you?

3. Cost Considerations

Onsite Courses

• Higher upfront costs: Onsite procurement courses typically have higher fees due to instructor travel, venue rental, and materials.
• Additional expenses: There may be extra costs for travel, accommodation, meals, and other logistics, especially if the course is held in a different city.
• High value for complex subjects: Despite higher costs, onsite training may offer greater value for complex or specialized subjects that benefit from face-to-face interaction.

Online Courses

• Lower costs: Online courses are generally more affordable since there are fewer overhead costs, like venue fees or instructor travel.
• No additional travel expenses: You save money by eliminating travel and accommodation costs, especially for international courses.
• Scalability: Online procurement courses can often be reused or taken by multiple team members at a lower per-person cost.

Key Questions:

• Do you have a budget that accommodates travel and accommodation, or do you prefer a cost-effective, online solution?
• Is the potential networking or hands-on experience worth the additional costs of an onsite course?

4. Learning Style Preferences

Onsite Courses

• Prefer face-to-face interaction: Onsite procurement courses are ideal for individuals who thrive on social learning, real-time discussions, and immediate feedback.
• Engagement through active participation: Learners who enjoy hands-on exercises, workshops, or group projects often benefit more from an onsite setting.
• Increased focus: Being physically present in a classroom minimizes distractions compared to remote learning.

Online Courses

• Independent learners: Online procurement courses are ideal for self-starters who are comfortable working independently and at their own pace.
• Tech-savvy learners: If you are comfortable with digital tools and platforms, an online course may be more convenient and engaging.
• Preference for visual/auditory learning: Many online courses incorporate videos, interactive quizzes, and multimedia resources, which can appeal to different learning styles.

Key Questions:

• Do you prefer learning through direct engagement with instructors and peers, or do you prefer self-guided learning with online resources?
• Are you comfortable using technology for learning?

5. Interaction and Engagement Level

Onsite Courses

• Immediate instructor feedback: Onsite procurement courses allow for real-time questions and clarification, improving understanding of complex topics.
• In-person peer collaboration: Group discussions and activities in a live setting can deepen understanding through shared perspectives.
• Tailored learning experience: Instructors can adapt to the group’s needs, ensuring that specific challenges are addressed on the spot.

Online Courses

• Online communities: Some online platforms offer discussion forums, Q&A sessions, or virtual meetings to foster interaction, though less immediate than onsite settings.
• Lower engagement: The level of interaction may be limited in online procurement courses, particularly if they are fully self-paced without live components.
• Scalable interaction: Online tools such as polls, quizzes, and assignments allow learners to engage with the content and measure their progress.

Key Questions:

• Do you require immediate feedback and engagement to fully understand the material?
• Are online discussion forums and occasional live sessions sufficient for your learning needs?

6. Logistics and Accessibility

Onsite Courses

• Location-dependent: Attending an onsite course means you need to be physically present, which might involve significant travel.
• Limited access: Onsite procurement courses are available at specific times and locations, which may not always align with your availability.
• Regional limitations: You may be limited to courses offered in your geographic area, unless you’re willing to travel.

Online Courses

• Accessible from anywhere: As long as you have an internet connection, online procurement courses provide access to learning materials from virtually any location.
• Universal availability: Online courses can cater to individuals across different time zones and regions, providing global access to education.
• Accessible to differently-abled individuals: Online platforms often offer accessibility features like subtitles, adjustable text, or screen reader compatibility, making them more inclusive.

Key Questions:

• Is the course location practical for your travel requirements?
• Do you need a course that you can access regardless of geographic constraints?

---

Conclusion: How to Make the Final Decision

To choose between onsite and online procurement courses, assess your priorities in these key areas:

1. Learning goals and style: Do you need hands-on, interactive learning, or prefer self-paced, flexible courses?
2. Schedule flexibility: Can you commit to set dates and times, or do you need the flexibility to learn at your own pace?
3. Budget: Can you accommodate travel and higher fees, or do you prefer a cost-effective solution without added expenses?
4. Interaction and engagement: Do you value real-time, face-to-face interaction, or is virtual interaction sufficient for your learning?
5. Logistics: Is the course location convenient, or do you need the flexibility to learn from anywhere?

By evaluating your needs in each of these areas, you’ll be able to make an informed decision on whether an onsite or online course is the best fit for you or your team.

Online procurement courses – Summary

In summary, the choice between online procurement courses and an onsite classroom course in procurement largely depends on individual preferences and circumstances. Learn How to Source stands out by offering a comprehensive online learning experience that combines the flexibility of digital education with the engagement and interactivity of traditional classroom learning, making it a compelling choice for modern procurement professionals.

In conclusion, online procurement courses provide an excellent opportunity for professionals to gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in this critical role. Learn How to Source, Procurement Academy, CIPS, Udemy, and Coursera are all excellent options for anyone looking to upskill or reskill in this field. By choosing one of these top procurement online courses, learners can ensure that they are getting the best possible education and maximizing their career opportunities.

Note: Illustration created by Chat-GPT on Jan 11, 2024.