We've already established that the terms "Purchasing," "Procurement," and "Sourcing" are used interchangeably as the names of the departments in which we work. This is done for a matter of convenience in writing and practicality when discussing our careers with different people.
Why then do some departments want to reinvent themselves with name changes? Sometimes the name change comes about purely for political reasons such as when upper (way upper) management decides there should be clean sweep and the people running the department are outsourced, transferred, allowed to retire early, etc.
At other times, the name change is a part of a thoughtful, deliberate plan. There are some subtle differences or at least connotations that the powers that be hope will improve the department's image or standing in the company.
It's interesting that the words we use do have identifiable effects on those that hear or see them. Ask any kid on the playground if the name he or she is called makes a difference. So it goes, things are not much different in Corporate America.
Before you read the next post, stop and ponder the following points for moment.
1) What is the name of your department?
2) Who named it that and when?
3) When you heard the word, what images, concepts, or feelings come to mind?
I have felt this words power on myself when visiting this tickets site and got into it a long time. I had a lot to see in those events I participated with those tickets and I do not regret it. The fact is that if words are used attentively, they can do miracles indeed!
Posted by: Becky | September 24, 2007 11:31 AM | Permalink to Comment