Assess cause-effect situation, understand what is causing delays, & understand where the potential impact would be, set priorities, this include to review Supplier Performance background (KPI). Have clear & open communication with your vendor management & stakeholders involved. Clearly outline expectations, use a problem-solving tool to follow-up, set virtual meetings/calls. Prepare a task-force team to visit your supplier’s facility. Also, have them visit your plant to exchange experiences & hold a business review. Revisit previous sourcing activities to check for alternate sources, likely customized items can be qualified in a quick fashion however if safety features are involved you should make aware customer.

When lead times disrupt supplier relationships, maintaining strength and trust becomes critical. Start by fostering open communication—keep suppliers informed about project timelines, delays, or changes. Collaborate to identify bottlenecks and explore mutually beneficial solutions, such as adjusting schedules or optimizing delivery processes. Show flexibility and appreciation by acknowledging their challenges and accommodating realistic expectations. Strengthen partnerships through proactive planning, like forecasting demand, to avoid future delays. By prioritizing transparency and collaboration, you can navigate lead-time challenges while preserving the trust and reliability that fuel long-term supplier relationships.

Extended lead times can challenge the resilience of supplier relationships. In addition to your strategies, building trust through transparency and collaboration is essential. Regularly sharing production plans, demand forecasts and addressing constraints collaboratively fosters mutual understanding.

Extended lead times strain supplier relationships. To maintain strong partnerships, prioritize proactive communication. Provide early warnings of potential delays and offer regular updates. Engage in joint problem-solving, sharing forecasts and exploring alternative solutions. Demonstrate flexibility and understanding, considering adjustments to schedules or specifications. Where possible, diversify your supply base and review inventory strategies. Ensure fair pricing and provide regular feedback. By fostering open communication and collaboration, you can navigate lead time challenges and strengthen supplier relationships.

Managing extended lead times is challenging, but can be minimised through on time sharing of forecasts for long term as well as short term to plan in advance, adding buffer delivery timelines to avoid delays, collaborating with suppliers to make cost adjustments, and finally investing in technology to get real time information on order & shipping status.