#Japan #Tokyo #SCSK #CO2 Management #Smart Procurement

SCSK's Smart Procurement Web: A Game Changer for Manufacturing

In a significant move towards efficiency and sustainability, SCSK Inc., headquartered in Koto-ku, Tokyo, has announced the launch of enhanced features for its procurement and purchasing service, Smart Procurement Web (also known as Smart Kura BDX). Starting February 1, 2026, this innovative platform will empower the manufacturing sector to manage estimates and carbon dioxide emissions data more efficiently.

Background of the Challenge

Traditionally, procurement departments in the manufacturing industry have focused on optimizing costs and quality. However, recent crises such as soaring raw material prices and supply shortages have severely increased the workload associated with requesting quotes from suppliers and evaluating potential partners. This has made reducing the time and effort involved in the estimation process an urgent priority. Compounding this issue is the growing global pressure for stricter environmental regulations, demanding comprehensive reporting and reduction of CO₂ emissions across supply chains. Additionally, legislative measures like the new Small and Medium Enterprises Contract Promotion Act (SME Contracts Act) will require more stringent management of fixed assets and contracts moving forward. Unfortunately, procurement teams find themselves overwhelmed with daily operations, making manual data collection and compliance a daunting task. In response, SCSK has introduced new functionalities in Smart Kura to not only optimize the estimation process but also unify carbon data collection and ensure compliance within a single service.

New Features and Unique Characteristics

The newly unveiled features aim to streamline operations in quoting, facilitate automatic CO₂ emissions estimation and data collection, and support compliance with the SME Contracts Act through the electronic management of fixed asset information and contracts within the same platform.

1. Efficiency in Quoting and Selection Processes

Traditional procurement systems are often centered on order management, relying heavily on analog methods such as emails and spreadsheets for managing estimates. Smart Kura changes this by digitizing the sourcing area related to components and raw materials. Key benefits include:

• - Streamlined Quotation Requests: Users can send bulk requests for estimates from multiple suppliers, leveraging past templates to minimize the time spent on similar projects.
• - Automated Follow-ups: The platform proactively reminds suppliers to respond to quotes, automatically handling the follow-up tasks that often consume time and resources for procurement staff.
• - Standardization of Processes: Historical quote management allows for quick access to past transactions, simplifying information retrieval and fostering efficiency.

2. Integration with CO×CO Calte for CO₂ Emissions Management

The challenges surrounding the reporting and reduction of CO₂ emissions, including Scope 3 emissions, can be daunting for suppliers. To ease this burden, Smart Kura offers:

• - Pre-Calculated Emission Reporting: Suppliers with established CO₂ emissions data can input their environmental information directly through the platform, facilitating easy reporting.
• - Automatic CO₂ Estimation for New Suppliers: Suppliers without existing calculations can utilize CO×CO Calte's automated features to derive their emissions data, which will be seamlessly integrated with buyer platforms, allowing for focused and efficient data collection.

3. Compliance with the SME Contracts Act

Smart Kura assists users in managing fixed asset information and contract documentation electronically, ensuring compliance with the new legislation. This includes:

• - Fixed Asset Management: Users can monitor the inventory of essential molds through web-based inputs and submit reports effectively.
• - Electronic Contract Management: The platform simplifies the process of drafting contracts that clarify service agreements with suppliers, expediting transactions through a standard format.

Additional Features

Smart Kura also introduces workflow functionalities, enhanced security measures, and robust conditions that meet industry standards to facilitate transparent and compliant procurement processes.

• - Internal Controls: The added workflow functionalities support the oversight and transparency of procurement operations.
• - Compliance with Industry Standards: The system adheres to the JEITA certification for safe trading practices, aligning with the latest guidelines issued by the Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association.

Launch Date and Pricing

The Smart Kura BDX will officially be launched on February 1, 2026. Initial costs start at ¥5 million, with monthly fees set from ¥200,000 onward. For those interested in the optional GX module including the CO×CO Calte connectivity, inquiries are encouraged.

Future Perspectives

Looking ahead, SCSK envisions not only further streamlining procurement tasks but also enhancing the scalability of decision-support systems. Upcoming features will incorporate AI capabilities for deeper cost analysis and supplier evaluations, with AI agents poised to elevate operations even further.

Conclusion

Smart Kura BDX is designed specifically for the needs of procurement in the manufacturing sector. By consolidating key functionalities, it supports a seamless transition from sourcing to purchasing while prioritizing sustainability and reduced operational burdens. As companies increasingly face the dual challenges of cost and environmental challenges, SCSK's solution emerges as a crucial ally in navigating the new landscape of manufacturing and procurement.