Align supply chain management systems with strategic initiatives and goals. Companies that excel in this area have entered into partnerships with their suppliers and work together to realize mutual gains and achieve strategic goals. Forge partnerships with suppliers. World-class supply chain management systems select suppliers according to various criteria that go beyond traditional cost per unit considerations. By working together across the supply chain, these companies are able to pool talents and resources, yielding substantial gains in cost, quality, flexibility, system responsiveness and overall performance.
Certification establishes a common language for communication.
This in turn fosters an increased level of trust and understanding between partners. Excellent companies often certify suppliers at different levels, reflecting the strength, depth and maturity of the relationship. Employ technology to improve supplier partnerships. Refine and enhance manufacturing processes. In particular, partners are able to identify which organization in the supply chain can perform a specific process at the highest quality and lowest cost.