It will include process digitization, communication platforms, which have become quite necessary and people have to rely on that says Ratan Lal Kashyap, Sr. Vice President- Procurement, G R Infraprojects Ltd.

Could you shed some light on the procurement process and the role of technology?
G R Infraprojects Ltd works at an all India level and we face localized problems depending on the region. We are into making of roads, airports and railways. GR Infra is not well equipped when it comes to technology but we are learning and adapting to the digital drive. We are an unorganized sector where the material which comes from a crusher and crusher is at a remote location and the sector where you are transporting is also unorganized. So, it becomes a challenge to get them together.

Being at a remote location, you have to ensure that how you can keep your system aligned to business requirements. We were already into ERP, ACP platforms, so most of the business process and units have been integrated. GR Infra is planning for a next-level integration for vendor management by using a portal. It will have vendor details, orders, evaluation and it will bring more transparency to all business partners.

What kind of logistics issue did G R Infra face in recent times and how did you overcome them?
For the last 6-7 months, it was a big challenge for every industry player to deliver the items. We have tied up with TNT Express Shipping, Mahindra Logistics for doorstep delivery. All you have to do is raise a service request (to pick up the consignment) by logging on to your computer to avail the service and it will be delivered within 24-48 hours.

We have adopted the platform of GPS, driver management for logistical services. We are trying to optimize this system to avoid miscommunication. Another challenge we have faced is that of couriers, physical invoices. To counter this, we are opting for digital invoices, where the consignment is done and vendors are advised to create digital invoice to streamline the process. This move will prove beneficial in the future and the digital platforms will be an add on to the businesses.

According to you, what will be the new normal post-2020?
As a techno-commercial person, digital transformation has to happen in the industry over a period of time and people have to rely on that. And it will include process digitization, communication platforms, which have become quite necessary. For B2B integration to happen, we are in the process of integrating systems which are hassle-free like auto bill generation, auto GRN and it has to happen. So, there is less human intervention and it is more business-specific. 

We are also trying to adopt mechanized process and automation while working on roads, bridges and railways. And invariably it will help with efficiency and business.