Correct Answer: D
Purchasing services presents unique challenges compared to purchasing tangible goods. One of the primary difficulties is measuring the quality of services provided. Unlike physical products, services are often intangible and can vary significantly based on the provider's performance, making it challenging to establish objective quality metrics. This subjectivity in service delivery requires robust monitoring and feedback mechanisms to ensure that the services meet the required standards consistently.
References
* Ellram, L. M., Tate, W. L., & Billington, C. (2007). Services supply management: The next frontier for improved organizational performance. California Management Review, 49(4), 44-66.
* van der Valk, W., & Rozemeijer, F. (2009). Buying business services: towards a structured service purchasing process. Journal of Services Marketing, 23(1), 3-10.