2-8.6 Analyze Data

Data must be analyzed across each dimension (e.g., product, supplier, location). Spend data is analyzed to help understand:

• What is the baseline for the entire Postal Service or CMC?
• What proportion of spend is within the scope of the particular purchase being considered?
• Are there components of spend that can be targeted for price reduction or savings?
• What portions of spend are for direct, indirect, and capital purposes?

To make effective use of spend information, various employees within the Postal Service, from commodity managers to financial managers, must be able to access and analyze the information, using advanced reporting and analytical tools.