Many companies use digital procurement systems and predefined approval workflows. As long as purchases follow standard catalogs, fixed suppliers, and budget limits, orders are processed automatically.

But as soon as exceptions occur – special pricing, new suppliers, volume deviations, or contract-specific terms – automation stops and manual approval is required.

AI can identify these cases, but it cannot decide or commit.

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With a BOB, companies define binding rules for when purchases are allowed.

For example:

• Place orders up to €250,000
• Only for approved suppliers
• Only within active contracts or negotiated frameworks
• Only if budget limits are not exceeded
• Only if no compliance or risk flags are present

AI evaluates each purchase request against supplier data, contracts, budgets, and delivery conditions. The BOB decides whether the purchase is allowed.

If the rules are fulfilled, the order is executed automatically. If not, it is blocked.

Impact

Automation no longer stops at purchasing exceptions.

Procurement decisions are executed autonomously within defined limits.

• Higher automation rate across real purchasing scenarios
• Fewer manal approvals and escalations
• Faster sourcing and order cycles
• Lower procurement risk and better cost control

This is the difference between automating procurement workflows and automating purchasing decisions.

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