P3Source

What is P3Source and how best to use it

What is P3Source?

What is P3Source?

At its core P3Source is a print procurement system. P3Source is a streamlined, efficient system to manage the complete workflow of print procurement process, that includes: sourcing, selling, ordering, and billing. It provides tools to simplify complex processes, improve accuracy, and enhance collaboration with suppliers and customers. P3Source is a flexible system that can be used in many different ways.

Why Use P3Source?

  • It saves you money by facilitating competitive bidding on your print projects.
  • It reduces errors by standardizing the print procurement process.
  • It centralizes all data related to the print procurement process.
  • It gives you certainty when you are looking for details.

P3Source Workflow

Linear Project Workflow

P3Source’s workflow is divided into four main sections:

  1. Sourcing
  2. Selling
  3. Ordering
  4. Billing

This linear workflow ensures clarity and simplicity in managing jobs, suppliers, and customers.

Workflow Breakdown

1. Sourcing

Sourcing involves building job specifications, selecting suppliers, and receiving pricing.

  • Build an RFQ: Enter detailed job specifications using predefined templates or free-form text.
  • Select Suppliers & Send RFQs: Choose suppliers, manage bidder lists, and send customized RFQs via email.
  • Receive & Review Pricing: Compare supplier bids, analyze prices, and award the job.

Sourcing is the foundational step to gather competitive bids and set up projects for success.

2. Selling

Selling turns supplier pricing into customer proposals and processes customer orders.

  • Create Proposal & Send to Customer: Build a proposal with supplier pricing, apply markups, and send a branded email to the customer.
  • Receive Order from Customer: Customers create orders via a unique link, which updates P3Source with order details.

Selling bridges supplier input and customer requirements, ensuring seamless communication. Many of our corporate buyers use the selling functions to solicit and record internal approvals for printing and other types of procurement projects.

3. Ordering

Ordering involves issuing and managing purchase orders with suppliers.

  • Create & Send Purchase Order to Supplier: Issue branded POs with detailed specifications, pricing, and terms.
  • Supplier Acceptance: Suppliers accept POs via a link, updating P3Source with confirmation details.
  • Supplier Confirms Shipment: Suppliers confirm shipments, including quantities, carriers, and tracking, updating the system and notifying stakeholders.

Ordering ensures clear, documented transactions with suppliers.

4. Billing

The final stage converts completed jobs into invoices and processes supplier payments.

  • Create & Send Invoice to Customer: Transition from proposals to branded invoices with added line items.
  • Receive & Accept or Decline Supplier Invoice: Review supplier invoices for accuracy, accept or decline, and authorize payment.

Billing finalizes the workflow, ensuring all financials are accurate and complete.

Conclusion

P3Source offers a structured yet flexible workflow that simplifies complex processes, reduces costs, and enhances productivity. Whether you’re managing a single project or multiple jobs, P3Source provides the tools you need for effective sourcing, selling, ordering, and billing of your print procurement.