When a corporation, business or other individual attempts to procure a good or service, there are certain social issues that come to light as a result. Most corporations would define this idea of social responsibility as the duty of employees or individuals to protect the interests and well-being of the environment and labor force, which includes equal opportunity employment, safety standards and other ethical principles. In a world where goods and services are demanded quickly and of high quality, corporations must consider these responsibilities before procurement.

Managers and other procurement experts can remain socially responsible in their duties by performing several key tasks. Balancing profit and ethical conduct is much harder than it seems, which is why employees must be taught about socially responsible procurement practices. Such individuals can remain socially responsible in procurement by following proper guidelines in the following areas:

• Environmental protection. Procurement managers should always consider the resulting environmental effects when producing their goods and services. They should, to the best of their ability, decrease the impact of production on the environment and support cleaner procurement practices. This will also contribute to a healthier surrounding environment for nearby communities and workers.
• Safe work environments. It is the social responsibility of procurement managers to ensure that workers inhabit a safe, comfortable work environment. The physical health of the employee should never be in danger as a result of production. The implementation of safety and health standards is a key social responsibility, regardless of the product, service or other factor.
• Equal and ethical work environments. Procurement managers should advocate and design inclusive, diversity-friendly work environments that provide equal opportunities to all employees. Basic human rights should be upheld and there should be a shared respect for all employees, regardless of race, gender, disability, age or other diversity factor.
• Fostering and supporting community. Socially responsible procurement managers will not only inspire a sense of community amongst their employees, but also extend their beneficial involvement into nearby communities. The corporation should not negatively affect towns, cities and other populations; on the contrary, procurement managers should ensure that the company has positive involvement with its nearby communities.

By employing socially responsible procurement practices, companies can actually improve not only their production, but also their employee and customer satisfaction. Such responsibilities may be more costly for corporations, but that should not dissuade them from implementing practices that can be beneficial not only to themselves but also those around them.