Establish Clear Quality Standards 1. Define and communicate clear quality expectations to new suppliers. 2. Develop a comprehensive quality management system to monitor and control quality. Conduct Thorough Supplier Evaluations 3. Assess potential suppliers' quality management systems, certifications, and audit history. 4. Evaluate their production capabilities, capacity, and lead times. Implement a Supplier Development Program 5. Provide training and support to new suppliers to ensure they meet quality standards. 6. Regularly monitor and audit supplier performance to identify areas for improvement. Monitor and Continuously Improve 7. Regularly review 8. Encourage feedback from suppliers and stakeholders to drive continuous improvement.

Ensure proper categories for suppliers. In Africa we consider these during vetting: - compliance with statutory requirements - Experience in category - Financial strength - Team composition and experience Run applicants and directors through AML and blacklisting in various sites. Communicate outcome of the process to all applicants.

WTo ensure quality and consistency remain intact, you would employ the same standards, specifications and procedures whether you are seeking to expand your supplier base or to maintain your current suppliers. The 6-sigma DMAIC methodology can be used: D - Define your specifications, standards, goals, procedures and any other KPIs M - Measure the performance against committed standards. Collect as much relevant data as possible A - Analyze data to root cause problems and identify opportunities for improvement I - Improve the process and output through continuous monitoring, adjusting, testing. C - Control through documentation, training, communication, IT systems, tools, etc.

Supplier Expansion usually happens with OE Business expansion or foray into a New Technology , While expanding : Selection of supplier base is very important to maintain Q/ D/ M and Development KPI’s This can be ensured thru a rigorous analytical selection process followed by Quality Audits.., In addition checking supplier financial status, relation with other OE’s, Management view point, Organisation are other important parameters to be checked.., Need not to mention that rather than expansion, existing supplier base could also be further strengthened!

To ensure quality and consistency when expanding your supplier base, start by defining clear quality standards with detailed tech packs and specifications. Vet suppliers thoroughly through audits, sample evaluations, and factory visits. Onboard them with proper training on your expectations and begin with small test orders. Implement robust quality control measures at all stages, including pre-production approvals, in-process checks, and final inspections. Use tools like ERP systems to track performance and maintain open communication for alignment. Regularly review supplier performance, diversify to mitigate risks, and establish contracts with clear quality clauses.

Either we expand supply base or continuing with existing we need to ensure few things as below to ensure Quality and sustain the same . 1) Establish systems which are very clear, simple and effective to monitor and take actions or how supplier needs to react during issues . 2) Use of digital tools to mointior live updates and using AI to take necessary action with appropriate data security tools and sign off between OEM and Supplybase . 3) Have highly Skilled team who are in souring team who can clear understand where the supplier is standing currently and also the integrity on what is said . 4) Digdeep on current systems and check against actual practice during audit. 5) Understand the supplier strengths to utilize and weakness to Improve.

The below ideas would be consider:- Supplier ranking and matrix Supplier performance evaluation Supplier relationship management Supplier quality definition and system to clarify and standardize quality and level

To ensure quality and consistency when expanding your supplier base, establish clear quality standards and communicate them to potential suppliers. Conduct thorough supplier audits to assess their quality management systems, manufacturing processes, and product testing protocols. Implement a supplier qualification process, develop a quality agreement outlining quality responsibilities and expectations, and regularly monitor and evaluate supplier performance using key performance indicators (KPIs).Additionally include certification and compliance with industry standards, using supplier scorecards to track performance, risk-based assessments, and third-party audits to evaluate suppliers' quality systems and processes.

1.Vet new supplier and train them on expectations 2. Continuous process improvements 3. Regular System upgrade on standards 4. Audit process for conformity

Expanding the supplier base requires a balance between growth and maintaining quality. Begin with a robust supplier qualification process, including audits, certifications, and compliance with industry standards. Define clear quality and delivery metrics, supported by regular performance evaluations and audits. Leverage technology for real-time tracking and data analytics to monitor consistency. Foster strong relationships through open communication, training, and collaboration to align suppliers with your quality objectives.