Based on this research, Best Practices was able to identify and profile some of the tactics and most effective practices these companies employ in their SCM strategies. For example, some successful companies have formed partnerships with their suppliers and now work together to realize mutual gains and reach strategic goals. You should select your suppliers based on criteria stretching beyond traditional cost per unit considerations. The goal of these partnerships is to be able to combine talents and resources across the supply chain, leading to gains in cost reductions, quality, flexibility, system responsiveness, and overall performance. Best Practices also recommends that you certify supplier-partners to establish a common language for communication.
Researchers add that successful companies often certify their partners at different levels.
It's important to constantly refine and improve the manufacturing processes. Partners should always identify which organization in the supply chain can perform a specific task at the highest quality and the lowest cost. You should use technology to improve supplier partnerships. Rather than limiting yourself to only one or two ways of working with a vendor, use a wide array of communications tools. All great discoveries are made by mistake.