Developing a rational plan to qualify sources is critical to developing a good vendor relationships.  By maintaining a formal approach to qualifying vendors, communications and success can be greatly enhanced.  Below are steps you might consider  in developing new sources.  

Steps Towards Qualifying New Vendors

1. Identify candidate items to be sourced
2. Develop list of potential vendors (domestic and global)
3. Qualify Vendors
4. Develop comprehensive Request For Quotation (RFQ).
   • Item name and specifications
   • Drawings
   • Purchase Quantities
   • Quality Requirements
5. Convert RFQ to vendor's local language
6. Send RFQ and sample parts to vendors
7. Determine tariff,  logistics  and freight issues and requirements for each vendor.
8. Receive, compile and review quotes.  
9. Research vendor references.
10. Select two to four potential vendors.  
11. Visit manufacturing facility.
12. Negotiate purchase price and terms.
13. Order sample parts for evaluation
14. Evaluate sample parts
15. Place trial order
16. Evaluate trial parts
17. Place production order.

Technical Assist, Inc.  

23199 Shelburne Road, Shaker Heights, Ohio  44122  

216/896-9497 fax 216/896/0359  Email Us

(Updated January,2004)

© 2003 Technical Assist, Inc.