In part two of our article, we look at how to source high-quality products that keep your customers satisfied and loyal.
A few ways to ensure quality sourcing success include:
- Researching and comparing suppliers
- Reviewing your product information
- Frequently auditing suppliers
- Frequently testing products.
By following these simple steps, you can increase your chances of providing your customers with high-quality products.
Research suppliers
Providing your customers with quality products starts with finding the right suppliers. Research and compare suppliers before committing to a company. And be prepared to spend a few weeks comparing your options.
A few factors to consider when choosing a supplier include:
- Making sure they meet legal and safety standards
- Checking they have a solid reputation and positive references
- Assessing their scalability and flexibility for different volume orders
- Comparing lead time and delivery statistics
- Checking their commitment to customer service.
Red flags might include a bad track record for shipment delays and negative reviews from previous customers.
Review your product information
The key to sourcing high-quality product is knowing your product. Ask your supplier to provide comprehensive product specifications to ensure the items meet your standards and expectations.
Detailed specifications, including CAD drawings, graphs and charts, provide a clear outline of how a product will be manufactured. They also include dimensional measurements, chemical composition, performance specifications and industrial standards.
You can also ask for a pre-production sample to see how they work to your specification. This step allows you to determine if the product is right for your application before the production cycle begins.
Audit your suppliers
You should audit your suppliers frequently to ensure they continue to provide you with high-quality products and confirm they are a sustainable source for the long-run. Things to evaluate might include the general operations of the supplier, legal and safety standards, and quality control systems in place during manufacturing.
You can also arrange to visit your supplier to see how your product is manufactured. A factory visit gives you personal insight into the organisation, production processes, quality checks and safety issues.
Test your products
The best way to ensure you’re receiving quality products is to test them frequently. This will enable you to experience firsthand whether the goods are meeting your specifications and/or industry standards.
Testing your products regularly can allow you to proactively troubleshoot any problems, reducing the risk of costly delays and replacements in the future. It’s also a great way to determine where there is room for improvement. And in today’s competitive market, there’s almost always room for improvement.
Choosing the right supplier can be the difference between high-quality and poor-quality products. It can also be the first step to your business’s success.
Discover why businesses throughout Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands trust Pacific Exporters to supply their industrial, mechanical, and electrical products. Get in touch with our team today.