Which of the following steps is part of the problem-solving process in procurement?

Identifying the underlying issues is a crucial step in the problem-solving process in procurement because it enables an organization to pinpoint the root causes of a problem rather than merely addressing the symptoms. This step involves analyzing the situation deeply to understand the reasons behind procurement challenges, such as supplier performance, cost overruns, or compliance failures.

By focusing on the underlying issues, procurement professionals can develop more effective strategies and solutions. This approach ensures that efforts to resolve the problem will not be superficial and that they will lead to sustainable improvements. Once the underlying issues are clearly identified, organizations can explore various avenues for resolution, allocate the right resources, and engage the appropriate stakeholders, ultimately leading to more effective procurement practices.

Other aspects, such as legal guidelines, resource availability, and stakeholder involvement, while important, are typically considered after identifying and understanding the root causes of the problem.