Explain the purchasing process and the different methods of purchasing.

1. 1 · Open in two lines. Purchasing is a planned process that takes a food service unit from a need to a paid, stored item. Its method depends on the item, quantity and institution.
2. 2 · Draw the process flow. [Flow: indent → specification → quotations → supplier selection → purchase order → follow-up → receiving → storage → payment]
3. 3 · Need, specification and quotations. Indent from menu and stock; precise specification; quotations or tenders invited.
4. 4 · Selection and purchase order. Compare price, quality and reliability; issue a written purchase order; follow up.
5. 5 · Receiving, storing and paying. Check goods against order, specification and invoice; store; update records; pay and evaluate the supplier.
6. 6 · Methods of purchasing.
   • Informal (open market) and formal (tender).
   • Negotiated, contract, cost-plus, standing order.
   • Centralised, group, cash-and-carry, just-in-time.
7. 7 · In food service. A government hospital buys staples by tender and vegetables daily in the open market.
8. 8 · Close in one line. A clear process and the right method give quality food at the lowest fair cost.

Scoring tip: Draw the flow first and write one line under each box; then give the methods as a short table.