You are managing a commercial project and need 500 cubic yards of concrete delivered over 3 days. Your regular supplier can only provide 300 cubic yards in that timeframe. What is the most appropriate procurement strategy?
Correct Answer
C) Secure a secondary supplier for the remaining 200 cubic yards
Securing a secondary supplier ensures the project stays on schedule while meeting the full material requirement. This is a standard expediting practice that maintains quality and timeline without compromising the project scope.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Securing a secondary supplier is the most appropriate procurement strategy because it allows the project to maintain its original schedule and scope without compromising quality. This approach demonstrates proper project management by finding a solution that meets all material requirements within the specified timeframe. Using multiple suppliers is a common and accepted practice in construction when primary suppliers cannot meet full demand, and it ensures continuity of work without delays or scope changes.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Reduce the concrete requirement to 300 cubic yards
Using a different concrete mix that requires less volume could compromise the structural specifications and quality requirements, and may not even be feasible depending on the engineering design requirements.
Option B: Use a different concrete mix that requires less volume
Reducing the concrete requirement to 300 cubic yards would compromise the project scope and structural integrity, as the 500 cubic yards was specified based on engineering requirements that cannot be arbitrarily reduced.
Memory Technique
Remember 'SSS' - when you have a Shortage, use a Secondary Supplier to maintain Schedule
Reference Hint
Project Management and Scheduling chapter, specifically sections on material procurement and expediting practices
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