Did you know that manufacturing companies are most worried about potential supplier risk?
A survey said that supply disruptions can cause a 62% loss in finances. Perhaps your company aims for stability in supply and control over the risks in the business. Growth is easier when you know how to aim for it in a structured way.
So, how can your company manage supplier risk and still be productive? There may be risks to having many suppliers, but there are solutions too, and that is what this article is all about.
Keep reading to learn about managing quality control with many suppliers.
Table of Contents
Perform Due Diligence on Suppliers
Companies should research suppliers before doing business with them. The supplier’s financial stability, quality of their products, and their business practices. Take time to do this research.
Companies can avoid doing business with suppliers who are not reputable. The goal is to ensure that the supplier can provide the services that the company needs. Cost-effectively, that’s where outsourced manufacturing fits in best.
Identify and Assess the Risks
Performance risk is the risk that a supplier will not be able to meet the requirements of the contract. Financial stability risk is the risk that a supplier failed its obligations. Geographical location risk is the risk that a supplier is in an area that is in danger of natural disasters.
Political environment risk is the risk that a supplier will operate in a country at risk. Assessing these risks will help the company come up with a strategic decision.
Develop Strong Relationships With Suppliers
A good working relationship with your suppliers will avoid any issues that may arise. One best way to cultivate a strong relationship is through communication. A contract in place with each of your suppliers outlines the expectations.
Another way also involves suppliers in the company’s planning process. Doing so may gain a better understanding of the suppliers’ business and operations.
Have a Contingency Plan
To protect against supplier risk, companies should have a contingency plan in place. Such as extra inventory, sourcing from many suppliers, or having in-house production capabilities. This plan should also include alternate suppliers for key components.
Diversify Supplier
One way to reduce the impact of supplier risk on the business is through diversifying. Instead of relying on a single supplier, the manufacturing company should have options. This means working with many suppliers for each component or product.
If that one supplier is unable to meet demand, other suppliers can make up the difference. This is challenging for companies because it requires more coordination and communication.
Having many suppliers for each part decreases the dependence on only one supplier. It creates competition that keeps costs down and improves quality assurance.
Learn More About Manufacturing Companies
Many ways manufacturing companies can manage supplier risk. The manufacturers must develop a risk management plan, which includes performing due diligence. They must also develop strong relationships among their suppliers.
Another thing is developing a contingency plan for unexpected disruptions of supply. Finally, the manufacturer must diversify its supplier of needed components. With this, they can mitigate the supply risks that is existing in the market.
Check out our other business-related content for more ideas.
