Samenvatting

The Port of Duqm serves as the primary entry point to the largest Special Economic Zone in the entire Middle East region (SEZD). This graduation thesis focuses on the Port of Duqm company in Oman. A key performance indicator (KPI) for the company in 2023 is the adoption of digitalization and the utilization of technological advancements. This strategic objective aims to unlock various benefits, such as improved operational efficiency, enhanced transparency, and increased competitiveness (Duqm Port, 2022). To achieve this objective, a project has been initiated to transition to E-tendering, which facilitates transparency and accountability through the digital documentation of procurement activities, thereby promoting fairness and reducing the risks associated with corruption. To address this matter and explore potential solutions, the following primary research question has been formulated.

'How can the current procurement process in tendering be enhanced to transition to E-tendering in the supply chain for Port of Duqm company before 2024?'

The thesis delves into the examination of the current procurement process in tendering within the supply chain of the Port of Duqm company. Its primary focus is on identifying opportunities for enhancement and devising strategies for a seamless transition to E-tendering by the year 2024. By embracing digitalization and leveraging technological advancements, the Port of Duqm company aims to unlock a range of benefits, including improved efficiency, enhanced transparency, and heightened competitiveness. The primary question has been divided into the subsequent sub-questions:

- What does the logistics concepts of Duqm Port look like?
- What is the current process of tenders?
- What are bottlenecks in the current process of tendering?
- What is the practice of e-tender in Oman?
- Which software will be the best choice?
- How can the new platform and process be implemented?

The report commenced by conducting a systematic literature review, examining the tender process, relevant laws, and identifying bottlenecks. It also discussed measures for improving tendering procedures, E-tendering challenges, processes, and software. Value Stream Mapping (VSM) was subsequently employed to visually depict the current tender process and identify potential bottlenecks using swimlane diagrams. Interviews were conducted to gather practical insights on E-tendering practices in Oman. The IT and procurement departments will utilize the MoSCoW factors to select appropriate software. Moving into the implementation phase, a PDCA approach, SWOT analysis, and Gantt chart will be employed to effectively organize tasks and allocate responsibilities for the project.

The result chapter of this report provides an introduction to logistics concepts for the Port of Duqm Company (PODC). It outlines the current tender process, including details about Oman's tender law, tender types, and the specific tender process employed by PODC. The chapter also highlights the identified bottlenecks in the current tender process using swimlane diagrams. Furthermore, insights on E-tender process practices in Oman are presented and gathered through interviews. The chapter then delves into the selection of the appropriate system and process through the utilization of the MoSCoW framework. Finally, an implementation plan is outlined using the PDCA approach to effectively organize tasks and ensure a smooth transition to the chosen E-tendering process.

In the discussion chapter, the report explores considerations for implementing new software in the E-tender process. It also discusses future prospects and trends of E-tendering, while identifying key features and qualities required in suitable software. The next researcher should define new KPIs and employ PDCA for ongoing improvement. Success can be measured by reduced lead time, decreased paperwork, streamlined tracking, and improved efficiency.