1. Identify the steps that Derick should take to solve his problem.

Surplus Styles is a manufacturer of hair care products, including shampoos, conditioners, and hair gels. The company, located in Southern California, bottles the shampoos and other various hair products in their manufacturing plant, but sources the content from a number of chemical suppliers. The company has historically competed on cost and has used competitive bidding to select suppliers and award yearlong contracts. The Director of Sourcing, Derick M. Frizzle, has managed the competitive bid process for the past 10 years, having moved up the ranks from purchasing. He was particularly proud that the company was cost-competitive in its market segment.