How to obtain quality supplies for your manufacturing

One of the most important aspects of the manufacturing process is using quality raw materials. However, obtaining these quality supplies is sometimes not an easy process. Total quality management (TQM) is a business process improvement program that focuses on reducing or eliminating waste, to produce a product that fits the customer and company needs. TQM has been shown to significantly improve the production process. One of the most important ways to become successful with TQM is to work with your suppliers to obtain quality materials.

Your suppliers must be able to provide you with quality materials in order for you to meet the needs of your customers. In addition, not only do you need quality materials from your suppliers, they also need to deliver your materials in a timely manner. You must also work hard to build the relationships with your suppliers, to continue keeping everyone satisfied.

In the past businesses may have threatened their suppliers, in order to get quality products. This method is not longer viable, because suppliers will respond by cutting you off from their supplies. TQM focuses on doing business in a quality manner. Instead of demanding perfection from your suppliers, you must simply establish a relationship with them that is built upon trust, cooperation, and teamwork. Keep in mind that the partnership you build with your suppliers,must be successful for both companies. You must provide them with timely payments and clear instructions. In return they should provide you with timely, quality supplies to make your product.

Forming a productive relationship with your suppliers, is easier then you think it might be. You can form relationships with your supplies,by being respectful when you talk to them and being reasonable in your requests. Failure to do this, causes contention between customers and suppliers. Work to build a relationship of trust and open communication through clear directions and timely payments.

One area that you canbuild a relationship with your suppliers,is during a time when you have a problem. Whatever the reason, or the fault of the problem,handle the situation appropriately. Do not use threats to get their attention, instead handle the situation professionally. You can encourage them to get the supplies to you,by a specific date,or ask them to adjust your price,to compensate for the additional delivery time.

It is also helpful that before you enter into a relationship,with your suppliers, you should get to know about their company. You will need to make sure you understand their capabilities,and do not push them beyond those capabilities. It can also be helpful to work together to plan for large inventory orders,as this will help you both build up a relationship, that isbuilt on trust and clear communication.

Communication is essential for any relationship to succeed, and this is no different between manufacturer and supplier. Far too often companies will make an order with their suppliers,and assume they will understand what you mean,when you carelessly give them orders. Make sure that you are concise and always give them clear instructions to eliminate waste.

Finally, in order to obtain quality materials you need to motivate your suppliers to sell their products to you. Once you sign a contract, they often forget about being enthusiastic about their products,and they don't have the motivation to contact you with new products and bonuses. Promise them that as long as they continue selling you quality materials, you will continue to purchase from them. This can be a great incentive to keep them motivated to satisfy you.And remember like any relationship, it can take time, but in the long run, be well worth the effort.