Proper planning is an essential element of good procurement.
The initial step in procurement planning is the determination of what is needed, how much, where and when. The purchasing objective is to provide quality goods and services through open and fair competition in the proper quantity and of the proper quality at the time and place needed, and to secure such goods and services at competitive prices. 3.1 Procurement and Delivery Lead Time . A. Administrative Lead Time . Administrative Lead Time is that period of time from initiation of the requirement by the user to issuance of an award.