Designing an inflation management tool for souring

The paper presents a comprehensive approach to addressing inflation challenges within strategic sourcing. Recognising that traditional sourcing models inadequately address inflation, the authors develop an actionable inflation management framework informed by literature reviews and expert interviews. The study identifies key levers, such as assessing cost-passing capabilities, utilising inflation heat maps, and integrating supply-side and demand-side inflation strategies. Using the design science research framework, the paper refines its conceptual model through empirical validation with industry stakeholders. This model bridges theoretical insights with practical applications, offering manufacturing organisations a systematic tool for mitigating inflation risks and optimising sourcing strategies. The findings contribute to academia and industry, enhancing sourcing strategies in inflationary contexts.