Using standards in specification is very convenient. They reduce the time and effort to produce. They tend to be very accurate with correct technical terminologies. They are well recognised and accepted by a wide range of suppliers and buyers. However, since a standard is very specific, complex and lengthy, it requires a lot of time to be drafted and approved. Therefore, standard tends to be static and don't encourage innovation. It may also not accommodate latest technology and trends.

Over-specification can cause problems to buying organisation, include the following:
- Higher expense due to unnecessary features embedded into the product
- Stifle competition because higher requirements will lead to fewer suppliers in the market are able to supply
- Harder to evaluate the trade-offs between different features and attributes in the specification

Detailed Explanation:De-regulation removes barriers to entry, encouraging new suppliers to enter the market. Other factors, like high investment or stringent requirements, limit supplier participation. Reference:
CIPS Level 4, Market Entry and Supply Chain Factors.

To improve production process and reduce supply risk, Datong should collaborate with suppliers early in procurement cycle. Collaborating with suppliers in this way is often referred as Early Supplier Involvement (ESI)
'Request for quotation from potential suppliers': Quotations should only be requested if the buyer know exactly what they need. In this scenario, Datong is not yet sure about the specifications of product's components, request for quotation is not a good idea.
'Mapping out business plan': A business plan, as defined by Entrepreneur, is a "written document describing the nature of the business, the sales and marketing strategy, and the financial back-ground, and containing a projected profit and loss statement." A business plan is not appropriate with improving production process and reducing supply risk.
'Budget controlling': Budget controlling largely concerns with dealing with budget variances. Tighter budget alone cannot lead to improved processes and fewer risks.
LO 3, AC 3.1