How can you ensure your suppliers are aligned with your TQM goals?

Our suppliers must be aware of our quality policies, quality standards and quality specifications. This can be done through trainings with them (quality awareness). Keep our suppliers involved, keep them informed in every change that we may have in the business. Routine supplier audits are also key to ensure that they are still compliant to our standards and specifications to meet our desired expectations.

Regular audits and evaluations should be conducted to measure their adherence to quality standards. Implementing key performance indicators (KPIs) can facilitate ongoing monitoring, allowing for a systematic review of supplier performance.

I use RAILS (rotating Action Item Lists) to address and resolve each issue as it occurs. The RAIL can be used as a tracker/history of what has been addressed.

Establish formal quality agreements with suppliers that outline the quality standards, specifications, and expectations. These agreements can serve as a reference point for both parties and help in resolving any quality-related issues.

To ensure alignment with Total Quality Management (TQM) goals, establish clear communication channels with suppliers by articulating the TQM vision, expectations, and quality standards. Implement regular meetings, performance reviews, and collaborative initiatives to foster a shared understanding and commitment to continuous improvement.

Once you have assessed your current situation, you need to communicate your TQM vision and goals to your suppliers and explain why they are important for your business success. You should also involve your suppliers in the development and implementation of your TQM strategy and invite them to share their ideas, suggestions, and best practices. You can use various channels and methods to communicate with your suppliers, such as meetings, newsletters,

Implement robust supplier assessment mechanisms, emphasizing shared quality objectives and continuous improvement. Encourage open dialogue to address challenges and promote a cooperative relationship, reinforcing the importance of adherence to TQM principles for mutual benefit and sustained quality excellence.

Regular audits, performance reviews, and adherence to predefined metrics are effective methods to monitor and measure supplier performance in alignment with TQM objectives. This approach fosters accountability and facilitates ongoing improvement in the supplier's quality management practices.

Clearly identify metrics, and manner of collecting data. Schedule a recurring review of this information. Keep an ongoing Pareto chat on quality items so you know when to pivot from present objectives

Develop a comprehensive set of quality standards, conduct regular audits, and provide constructive feedback to suppliers. Implement collaborative initiatives, such as joint improvement projects or workshops, to encourage a shared commitment to quality enhancement.

The role of supply chain partner is very important for an organization in maintaining a stable quality management. 1. Make sure quality goals and objectives are clear. 2. Integration of quality system in supplier's organization. 3. Facts based decision making to have a clear understanding on the requirements. 4. Knowledge sharing on technical advancements and benchmarking. 5. Supplier audits and Trainings 6. Continuous Improvement activities & Kaizens, will help us to ensure suppliers are in line with TQM goals.