Many operators are evaluating major changes to their procurement processes and functions, to make them more appropriate to emerging open, cloud-based networks. The UK’s BT is in the forefront, having recently set up a new procurement unit called BT Sourced, which may now establish itself as a commercial unit, selling services to other operators and to large enterprises. Chief procurement officer Cyril Pourrat says the Ireland-based unit, which was carved out of BT’s main structure in April, could form purchasing clubs with other operators to boost buying power, and even with companies from other industries with similar purchasing needs. But speaking during the unit’s official launch, he suggested it could go further than joint procurement, in its approach to partnerships,…