FAQ
January 22, 2026 2026-03-25 19:40FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs )
Why join us?
You should join us if you want practical, career-focused training in procurement, supply chain, and logistics.
SCMERPSM helps learners in South Africa gain internationally recognised skills, industry knowledge, and professional support to grow faster in their careers. Our training is designed to be job-relevant, flexible, and aligned with global standards, including CIPS.
What are the costs?
The cost depends on the course or qualification you choose.
SCMERPSM offers affordable, transparent pricing and a range of study options to suit working professionals and students in South Africa. For exact fees, it’s best to contact us directly so we can recommend the right course and cost based on your goals.
What is ESG?
ESG is a way for companies measure how responsible and sustainable they are.
It examines how a business impacts the environment, treats people, and adheres to ethical governance practices. ESG is increasingly important across supply chains, procurement, and corporate decision-making worldwide.
What does ESG stand for?
ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance.
- Environmental: How a company impacts the environment
- Social: How it treats employees, suppliers, and communities
- Governance: How the company is managed, controlled, and audited
ESG is now a key focus area in procurement and supply chain management
What is supply chain management?
Supply chain management is the process of planning, sourcing, producing, and delivering goods or services efficiently.
It covers everything from buying raw materials to delivering the final product to customers. Good supply chain management helps businesses reduce costs, improve quality, and avoid disruptions.
Where can I study logistics and supply chain management?
You can study logistics and supply chain management at SCMERPSM in South Africa.
We provide professional training, certifications, and internationally aligned courses designed for people who want real-world skills and global career opportunities in supply chain and procurement.
Is supply chain management in demand in South Africa?
Yes, supply chain management is highly in demand in South Africa.
Businesses need skilled professionals to manage logistics, procurement, risk, sustainability, and global trade. Careers in supply chain offer strong job opportunities, growth, and long-term stability across many industries.
What is procurement?
Procurement is the process of buying goods and services for an organization.
It includes supplier selection, contract management, cost control, and risk management. Modern procurement focuses on value, sustainability, and compliance, not just buying at the lowest price.
What is cips?
CIPS stands for the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply.
It is a globally recognised professional body for procurement and supply chain professionals. A CIPS qualification helps you gain international credibility, better job opportunities, and higher earning potential in South Africa and worldwide.
What is vendor risk in supply chain management?
Vendor risk refers to the potential threats that arise when an organization relies on external suppliers, service providers, or partners. These risks can include financial instability, poor quality, delivery delays, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, non‑compliance with regulations, or unethical practices. Managing vendor risk helps protect business continuity, reputation, and operational performance.
Why is vendor risk assessment important for businesses?
Vendor risk assessment helps organizations identify weaknesses in their supply chain before they cause disruptions. It ensures suppliers meet standards for quality, security, compliance, sustainability, and reliability. A strong assessment process reduces exposure to fraud, data breaches, delivery failures, and reputational damage, while improving overall supply chain resilience.
How can companies effectively manage supply chain and vendor risks?
Effective vendor risk management includes conducting due diligence, evaluating supplier performance, monitoring compliance, reviewing cybersecurity controls, and maintaining clear contracts with defined expectations. Companies should also diversify suppliers, implement continuous monitoring tools, and develop contingency plans to reduce dependency and ensure business continuity.
How does procurement training help improve job performance?
Procurement training equips professionals with practical skills such as sourcing, negotiation, supplier management, risk assessment, contract management, and ethical decision‑making. It helps individuals work more confidently, reduce supply chain risks, and contribute to cost savings and operational efficiency within their organizations.
What levels of CIPS training are available and who can enroll?
CIPS offers five qualification levels, from entry‑level (Level 2) to the professional diploma (Level 6). Anyone can start at Level 2, while Levels 4–6 are ideal for those with experience or prior qualifications. These levels support learners at every stage—from beginners entering procurement to senior professionals aiming for strategic leadership roles.
