What is the Hidden Cost of Buying Awards like Commodities

Awards are frequently compared by unit price. On paper, that seems like a rational decision, but in practice, this mindset often ignores the largest costs.

The hidden cost of buying awards like commodities include:

• Disappointing recipients. 
• Undermining executive messaging.
• Inconsistent branding.
• Missed deadlines.
• Endless revisions.
• Internal coordination.
• Replacing failed products.
• Explaining why the company's most important recognition suddenly looks inexpensive.
  
  

These costs rarely appear on a purchase order. They appear later. 
Organizations that run mature recognition programs eventually realize that the award itself is only one component of a much larger system, and that the supplier is helping protect the program.

When viewed through that lens, the conversation changes, to being about how the lowest price is no longer automatically the lowest cost. When it comes to the recognition programs and buying awards, the safest decision is often the one that prevents problems no one else ever notices.