Who comes first?

May 2nd, 2017

When completing a successful eRFX event, who comes first?

 

Today’s post is from our SafeSourcing archives.

When completing a successful eRFX event, who comes first? “The client always comes first” is the general answer, but what about the suppliers? The suppliers’ full participation brings success to your event. This raises the question, “does the supplier come first?”

With eRFX events on a rise and being used with many companies now it allows a competitive, fair, and easy quoting process for the supplier. Suppliers’ full participation is necessary for a successful eRFX event. The following steps are crucial to a successful event:

•  Detailed and thorough eRFX requirements- If the scope of work or supplies does not make sense to you it probably will not make sense to your supplier.

•  Be open and ready for feedback and questions from suppliers- if you dismiss their questions and concerns, they will in turn feel the  information is inadequate and could either provide quotes that your client cannot use or will quote beyond your clients’ needs to cover their liability.

•  Continuous engagement between the supplier and intermediary- Your suppliers may be experienced with eRFX events, but some will be very frightened of the idea. Keep your supplier engaged with continuous communication and availability.

•  Provide feedback- The supplier put in a lot of time and effort in to provide competitive pricing. Acknowledge that. Follow-up with suppliers after the award of business has been made. This is going to be the reason they engage in another eRFX event. Provide feedback to the suppliers when necessary.

It is not always the outcome of the quote, so even if the supplier did not get awarded the business, which impacts their thoughts on eRFX events; it is the process that leaves an impact on the supplier. The supplier will be encouraged by the process and feel confident in the quotes provided to your client.

We, at SafeSourcing, practice this level of service to all suppliers.  For more information on how we can help you with your procurement needs or on our “Risk Free” trial program, please contact a SafeSourcing Customer Service Representative.  We have an entire customer services team waiting to assist you today.

We look forward to your comments.

If you thought this page is useful to your friend, use this form to send.
Friend Email
Enter your message