Indirect Categories

Indirect Categories comprise goods and services that support organizational operations but don't become part of the final product or service offered to customers. These purchases enable business functions but aren't directly incorporated into what the company sells.

Common indirect category examples include:

• Marketing and advertising services
• Information technology hardware and software
• Professional and consulting services
• Facilities management and utilities
• Office supplies and equipment
• Travel and entertainment expenses
• Maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) items

Effective indirect category management requires cross-functional collaboration, standardized approval workflows, and user-friendly procurement tools that balance control with accessibility. Modern procurement systems address these needs through intuitive interfaces, guided buying experiences, and automated policy enforcement mechanisms.