3. Supplier and Partnering Relationships OMI has established or is establishing partnering alliances with several strategic suppliers. Where appropriate, all CH2M HILL companies combine their purchasing volume to obtain considerable savings in shipping, travel, and telecommunications. Purchasing and supplier management, although important, are not as critical to OMI as to most firms-OMI focuses more on associate development (training, rewards and recognition, education, etc.) because labor comprises a higher percentage of total costs.