"Accountability is the glue that ties commitment to results." When a vendor misses project milestones, addressing it promptly and constructively is key. Begin by discussing the missed milestones openly to understand root causes, such as resource constraints or miscommunication. In my experience, setting up a revised timeline with more frequent progress check-ins helps the vendor stay accountable and allows for quick adjustments if further delays arise. Document the new plan and action items to ensure clarity. A common mistake is assuming the vendor will self-correct; instead, provide guidance and maintain close oversight to get the project back on track effectively.

For missing milestones, prior any judgement assess all variables to understand causes, set up a task force team (Quality, Eng., Project, Purch.) to deploy support, if possible you try to lead, escalate subject to both upper management for awareness for extra support needed. Maintain clear mutual communication. Work in prevention, nominating a new business to your partner you have to set clear project milestones, they must follow APQP process (automotive industry) or use alternatives like Agile or Scrum, remember your source is a business partner and if you care for themselves they will do the same for your organization while maintaining strong and clear communication, have them attend a visit to your plant and do the same from your side.

Set up a call to address missed milestones and seek for root causes, and corrective actions. Establish revised timelines and to avoid recurrences, set clear expectations, and schedule regular progress check ins. It also crucial to create an environment of collaboration to ensure future deadlines are met.

If your vendor is missing project milestones, start by understanding the reasons behind the delays and having an open conversation with them. Work together to adjust the timeline or resources if needed, and set clear, realistic new deadlines. Regular check-ins can help keep everything on track. Offer support where possible, whether it's providing additional resources or clarifying expectations. Keep monitoring progress and, if things don't improve, escalate the issue or consider alternatives. Finally, document everything—this ensures clarity and helps prevent misunderstandings. By staying communicative and flexible, you can get the project back on course.

To get a vendor back on track after missed project milestones, first, assess the root cause of the delays—whether due to resource issues, miscommunication, or unrealistic timelines. Schedule a meeting to openly discuss the challenges and align on new, achievable deadlines. Revisit the project scope and clarify expectations, ensuring both parties understand the priority tasks. Set up more frequent check-ins to monitor progress, offer support, and address issues early. Consider implementing a performance incentive or penalty structure to encourage timely delivery. Maintaining open communication and a collaborative approach is key to resolving delays and getting the project back on course.