Instead, members agree to contribute to Forum projects and tasks, principally with information, case studies and staff time. The inaugural meeting was held in July 1997. The European Procurement Forum focuses on practical, strategic issues that have a direct impact on competitiveness. In a confidential setting, members work together to identify, debate and develop best practice approaches to procurement. The opportunity to shape, test and deploy new thinking and approaches Sharing knowledge and experience through Forum events and networking Facilitating change with suppliers, through their combined weight and voice Collaboration in practice - how the Forum works Collaboration lies at the heart of the European Procurement Forum.
Members meet three times a year in facilitated one-day meetings.
An informal dinner is held the evening before to facilitate the networking that Forum members value. This allows thorough debate on the key theme rather than short sessions on many topics. Guest speakers are invited too, eg industry experts and supplier executives. Open Group staff Members can request 'Crash Tasks', an opportunity for rapid responses to their issues and problems from other members There is regular news and briefings There is privileged access to The Open Group's European collaborative projects Information, tools and resources are provided via the World Wide Web Members also are involved in testing procurement-related programs from The Open Group and so have early access to the final deliverable. Programme Meetings are held in European cities with good transport links and a choice of flights, trains, fares and accommodation where required.