Computers control and provide item specification, solicit bids, issue and track purchases, and provide a history. In many cases, this is done automatically and electronically without the need to handle paper.

Vendors are already qualified and accounts established, eliminating delays and confusion, and providing good pricing and value.

Bulk purchases or blanket orders with vendors for multiple items released separately for different projects also help in keeping costs their lowest, and making acquisition easy, reliable, and trouble-free.