Chapter 4 has a major focus on “integration,” which is defined as “the process of incorporating or bringing together different groups, functions, or organizations, either formally or informally, physically or by information technology, to work jointly and often concurrently on a common business related assignment or purpose.” This sounds wonderful, but in reality it is difficult to achieve due to many barriers.
What are some barriers that you can think of which may interfere with integrating the purchasing process with the rest of the organizational effort?

1. Provide a real example, from your work experience if possible or from research.
2. Conclude by describing how you think this barrier may be removed so efforts to integrate stand a better chance of success.