Methodology
Five phases from raw AP export to signed category map
Our mapping method is documented so your audit and sourcing teams know exactly how figures were derived — no black-box scoring.
Phase 01 — Intake and field dictionary
We receive AP exports, supplier master files, and any existing taxonomy. Together we define category labels, plant codes, and intercompany flags before touching charts.
Phase 02 — Supplier normalisation
Duplicate vendor names merge under documented rules. Tax IDs take precedence; fuzzy matches enter a manual review queue. A change log captures every merge for audit.
Phase 03 — Category assignment
Spend rows map to agreed categories using GL crosswalks and buyer interviews where codes are ambiguous. Unmapped spend is quantified explicitly — never silently dropped.
Phase 04 — Chart drafting and peer review
Concentration bars, Pareto curves, and supplier bubbles are drafted with question-led titles. A second analyst reconciles totals before client review.
Phase 05 — Readout and handover
We walk your committee through findings in a structured session, then deliver editable workbooks, PDF charts, and written recommendations you retain permanently.
Every engagement must pass a three-point gate before readout:
- Chart totals match AP source within 0.1%
- Category dictionary signed by client sponsor
- Peer analyst sign-off on supplier merges affecting top-decile spend
Deliverable formats
- PDF chart deck with annotated margins
- Excel workbook with normalised spend tables
- Written narrative (typically 8–15 pages for flagship engagements)
- Optional quarterly update layer for retainer clients