Supplier development program suggestions wanted

[Scott Thor]

I'm in the process of revising our supplier development program and wanted to see if anyone had thoughts on what's worked for them that I might include into my program.

We have 4 locations and our top 32 suppliers have been split up amongst associates at each location. These associates are then tasked with the goal of improving the PPM and quality cost performace of their suppliers.

I'd like to try some new stuff this year and was wondering what your experience has been with this topic. Does your company work on developing suppliers? If so, what's worked and what hasn't?

 

[Mike S.]

First, Throman, welcome. Also, have you tried a search for "supplier development" on the Cove? That should get you some info.

It may sound like an oversimplification, but IMO the #1 thing you need to do in supplier development is as simple as frequent, clear, communication between you and the supplier. Whether it be face-to-face or not, frequently talking to one another about wants, needs, possible problems, etc. is often overlooked while more flash and expensive (but less effective) tools are substituted.