Using the 10 cs of supplier selection

Filed Under procurement

As all supply chain professionals know, selecting the right supplier includes much more than a focus
purely on cost. If your actively involved in supplier selection youll know it can be an exhaustive process.
There can be a wide range of variables to consider that can make the process complex and timeconsuming.
One element to consider is a standard selection framework for selecting suppliers. Standard criteria can
help level the playing field whilst also giving you a standardized procedure removing some of the
guesswork from the process. But how should you evaluate your potential suppliers.
Carters10 Cs are an all inclusive means of making sure that a thorough method is adopted in regards to
the supplier evaluation and that it is fair for all potential entrants. Carters 10 Cs method of evaluating
suppliers has undergone various enhancements (from its original incarnation of the 7 cs) and represents
an ideal star point for those involved in recruiting or evaluating suppliers. While your criteria may be
subtly different developing a standardized set of requirements will help simplify the process and
remove subjectivity.
So what to consider? Carters 10 Cs can be summarized as:
1. Competency Does your supplier have the skills to deliver the materials you require?
2. Capacity Does the supplier have an adequate engine room to produce your goods. Capacity can
include equipment, human resources and materials. Can your supplier flex their capacity in line with
your requirements?
3. Commitment Quality is a key requirement for any business does your supplier have the
commitment to maintain suitable quality performance?
4. Control Is your supplier in control of their policies and procedures? Can it ensure that its
performance can be consistent.
5. Cash Does your supplier have adequate financial standing?
6. Cost What is the cost of products from the supplier.
7. Consistency Does the supplier guarantee a consistent product time and time again?
8. Culture Does the supplier share the same cultural values as your organization. Does it make sense
that your supplier shares similar values and attitudes to avoid strains in the future relationship?.
9. Clean Does your supplier have an appropriate sustainability policy?
10. Communication What tools will you utilize to communicate with your supplier. Another key point is
who will communicate with who? For example consider how you will manage problem resolution and
issue escalation.
So thats Carters 10cs how do you evaluate and select your suppliers?
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