Indian automobile manufacturer Tata Motors has extended its IT sourcing partnership with Sunnyvale, California-based Ariba.

7 Jun 2005, 16:28 GMT - Under the new agreement, Tata Motors will continue to use Ariba's Spend Management and QuickSource platforms in an effort to drive additional cost reductions.

Ariba said its Spend Management application has enabled the automaker to introduce new suppliers, rationalize its supply base and run on-line markets, resulting in savings and the development of an effective supply chain. The tool has also been involved in Tata Motors' operations to automate, streamline and provide transparency into the sourcing process.

The company hopes to deploy the QuickSource platform to ensure savings and adopt best practices amongst the buying organization.

"With rising input costs and a competitive marketplace, managing spend and improving efficiency have been the key drivers for Ariba customers," said Arun Kharbanda, group director, Ariba. "Overall, we have seen a growing trend toward using spend management as a strategic resource to drive more efficient cost controls and to deliver positive bottom-line results."