Final answer:
In a free market, information technology is important for efficient communication and operations, while purchasing is crucial for securing competitive resources and managing supply chains.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks for an example of a supporting process, which is a role or function within an organization that aids the core business activities but is not directly involved in producing the product or service the business sells. From the options given, information technology and purchasing are clear examples of supporting processes. Information technology is essential for providing the necessary infrastructure, tools, and platforms that enable communication, data management, and operation of business processes. Purchasing, on the other hand, deals with acquiring the goods or services needed for the company to function, which, while essential, does not directly involve the core activity of selling a product or service.
In the context of free markets, these supporting activities can be crucial. Information technology enables efficient and swift communication, which is vital for real-time decision-making and adaptation to market changes. It also provides platforms for entities within the free market to interact, such as through e-commerce or data exchanges, enhancing competition and efficiency. Meanwhile, effective purchasing processes ensure that a business can secure the resources it needs at competitive prices, maintain quality, and manage supply chains, all of which contribute to better performance in a free market environment.