Efficiency, Collaboration, Process, and Effectiveness of Purchasing Department on Higher Education Institution

This study investigated the efficiency, collaboration, process, and effectiveness of the purchasing department in a higher education institution. Specifically, it examined efficiency in terms of workload, time management, and communication; collaboration in terms of feedback and solution; and process in terms of procedures, protocols, and orientation. It also assessed overall employee effectiveness and explored the relationships among these variables. A descriptive-correlational and causal research design was employed, involving non-teaching employees selected through stratified random sampling from three campuses of Liceo de Cagayan University. Data were collected using structured and researcher-made survey questionnaires and were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and regression analysis. Results showed moderate to high levels of efficiency, collaboration, and process practices, which positively influenced employee effectiveness. Correlation analysis revealed significant positive relationships among efficiency, collaboration, process, and effectiveness. Regression analysis identified time management, communication, and feedback as the strongest predictors of employee effectiveness. However, challenges related to workload imbalance, communication gaps, and inconsistent procedures were found to affect performance. The findings indicate the need for streamlined purchasing processes, improved feedback mechanisms, and clearer protocols to strengthen operational efficiency, collaboration, and departmental effectiveness. The study provides practical insights for administrators, purchasing personnel, and policymakers in higher education.