Planning
Implementation of a successful CMS program requires involvement and input from a cross-functional Team and the support of appropriate upper management personnel. Creating such a Team is essential to developing a CMS program.

• Establish a program team, define roles and responsibilities
• Develop goals and objectives
• Develop a workplan
• Select a pilot facility

Baseline Chemical Use and Purchase Costs
Analyzing your chemical management system and baselining current purchase and management costs are two of the most important parts of the entire process. In this phase, the chemical management processes are mapped, and a comprehensive chemical lifecycle cost baseline is developed.

• Develop a process map showing the flow of chemicals
• Assign costs of chemical use
• Analyze costs

Does a CMS program make sense for your company?

Develop Scope of Program
Based on your company's objectives and the analysis of your current chemical management system, your Team should determine the scope of your CMS program and communicate these expectations to management to gain the necessary buy-in.

• Identify the primary cost drivers
• Develop the scope of a chemical service program
• Obtain top management approval to recruit a chemical service provider

Engage a CMS Provider
Once you have defined the scope of your CMS program, your team is ready to develop a Request for Proposals (RFP) that clearly describes your requirements. Then, your team will go through the process of evaluating and selecting a CMS provider and crafting a contract with the appropriate compensation mechanisms.

• Develop RFP language
• Consider compensation and incentives for environmental performance
• Select a service provider
• Negotiate a contract