OECM sponsored a capstone project in collaboration with students from Seneca College’s Post Graduate Diploma in Supply Chain Management program. The project, titled “Enhancing Data Validation Mechanisms for Supplier-Provided Reports at OECM,” was conducted under the guidance of Professor George Beck and focused on improving the accuracy, transparency, and accountability of supplier-reported data.
The project’s aim was to address a known challenge within OECM’s current process of gathering supplier-reported data, including spend, KPIs, and determine how to mitigate associated risks. Additionally, the goal was to explore industry best practices, automation tools, and stakeholder engagement models to design a scalable, cost-effective validation framework that enhances data integrity and supports informed decision-making.
A cross-functional OECM team, including representatives from the Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) teams, met weekly over an 8-week span, with the student group. As part of their research, the students surveyed suppliers to understand current reporting challenges better.
The final report, which included findings and recommendations for a scalable data validation framework, was presented to OECM in early April, where the student team visited OECM’s Corporate Office for a formal presentation and a meet-and-greet session with staff who supported the project.
“This engagement reflects OECM’s commitment to working closely with community partners and facilitating innovation, partnership, and continuous improvement across our procurement community,” says Tibor Galambos, OECM’s Director of Supplier Relationship Management.
The future of the OECM supplier data validation process will be driven by Smart Validation & Automation, where AI-driven tools will cross-check supplier data against customer information, flag inconsistencies, and ensure accurate reporting with minimal manual effort. OECM is looking to implement a flawless, efficient, and futuristic procurement process by combining automation, and transparency with supplier and customer collaboration.

OECM: Working to Enhance Data Integrity and Support Informed Decision Making
