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Quality glossary
Supplier Quality Management (SQM)
Supplier Quality Management keeps multi-tier supply chains aligned with brand expectations and compliance obligations.
Metrics like defect rate tracking power supplier scorecards and business reviews.
Building an SQM program
It begins with risk-based supplier onboarding, capability assessments, and clear quality agreements.
Ongoing monitoring blends inspection data, delivery performance, and commercial feedback.
Driving continuous improvement
High-risk suppliers receive development plans, training, and frequent audits until performance stabilises.
Escalations may include SCARs for persistent issues.
SQM in KaizenQ
KaizenQ aggregates inspection results, NCRs, and corrective actions by supplier to inform QBRs.
Shared portals let suppliers view their scorecards and collaborate on improvement plans.
Key takeaways
- SQM balances risk, performance, and collaboration across suppliers.
- Data-driven scorecards and SCARs encourage accountability.
- KaizenQ centralises supplier data for transparent reviews.