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10 strategies and tactics for Supplier

What is Supplier strategy?

Every great achievement starts with a well-thought-out plan. It can be the launch of a new product, expanding into new markets, or just trying to increase efficiency. You'll need a delicate combination of strategies and tactics to ensure that the journey is smooth and effective.

Identifying the optimal Supplier strategy can be challenging, especially when everyday tasks consume your time. To help you, we've assembled a list of examples to ignite your creativity.

Copy these examples into your preferred app, or you can also use Tability to keep yourself accountable.

How to write your own Supplier strategy with AI

While we have some examples available, it's likely that you'll have specific scenarios that aren't covered here. You can use our free AI generator below or our more complete goal-setting system to generate your own strategies.

Supplier strategy examples

You'll find below a list of Supplier tactics. We also included action items for each template to make it more practical and useful.

Strategies and tactics for crafting a Supplier and Contractor Engagement Strategy

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Develop a supplier onboarding and verification process

    • Gather a list of suppliers from NHC for onboarding purposes
    • Create a standardized onboarding checklist including compliance aspects
    • Verify supplier credentials against NHC's established requirements
    • Implement a system to routinely price check with suppliers
    • Conduct regular training sessions on platform usage for suppliers
    • Form a dedicated support team for supplier inquiries
    • Launch a pilot program with selected suppliers to test processes
    • Collect feedback post-pilot to enhance the onboarding experience
    • Monitor supplier performance against compliance standards
    • Regularly audit supplier practices to ensure quality compliance

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Expand contractor engagement and support

    • Initiate marketing campaigns targeted at contractors for platform awareness
    • Organise webinars or workshops highlighting platform benefits
    • Gather and act upon feedback from contractors during pilot phases
    • Monitor the status of orders to assess contractor satisfaction
    • Increase outreach to onboard more contractors across different sectors
    • Build partnerships with contractor associations to boost adoption
    • Introduce AI solutions for contractors regarding material selection
    • Maintain open communication channels with contractors
    • Identify contractor needs and tailor solutions accordingly
    • Rapidly address challenges faced by contractors on the platform

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Implement long-term supplier and contractor collaborations

    • Strategically onboard additional suppliers from diverse regions
    • Develop partnerships with relevant industry organizations
    • Provide suppliers with regular training on new platform features
    • Conduct periodic compliance reviews to maintain standards
    • Execute marketing efforts to expand the contractor user base
    • Establish collaborations with key contractor associations
    • Develop platform features that enhance user experience
    • Implement user feedback-driven improvements on the platform
    • Ensure ongoing support and relationship management with suppliers
    • Promote a culture of continuous improvement across all operations
onboardingcompliancesupplier-managercontractor-liaisoncompliance-teamengagement-team
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Strategies and tactics for enhancing Supplier Diversity Programme Globally

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Leverage US Executive Orders

    • Research current executive orders related to supplier diversity
    • Identify small and medium-sized businesses in key industries
    • Develop partnerships with diverse supplier networks in the US
    • Create a supplier diversity policy aligned with US regulations
    • Organise webinars to educate suppliers on opportunities
    • Set goals for increasing diverse supplier contracts
    • Monitor compliance with executive orders regularly
    • Collect and analyse supplier diversity data for reporting
    • Engage with US-based supplier diversity advocacy groups
    • Provide training to suppliers on contract proposals

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Utilise UK Procurement Act

    • Examine the UK Procurement Act for opportunities
    • Identify key sectors with mature supplier diversity programs
    • Build relationships with expert groups in the UK
    • Promote the procurement act benefits to diverse suppliers
    • Host networking events for suppliers to meet potential buyers
    • Set clear measurement criteria for supplier diversity success
    • Create a mentorship programme for small diverse suppliers
    • Collaborate with UK government on supplier diversity initiatives
    • Regularly review legal requirements for public procurement
    • Highlight successful case studies of diverse procurement in the UK

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Focus on Indigenous Procurement in Canada and Australia

    • Understand the Indigenous Procurement Policy in both countries
    • Identify opportunities in government and private contracts
    • Partner with indigenous business councils and networks
    • Raise awareness of indigenous suppliers to potential buyers
    • Develop training sessions on submitting contract proposals
    • Allocate a percentage of contracts specifically for indigenous suppliers
    • Create a feedback system to improve supplier engagement
    • Publicise achievements in indigenous procurement
    • Engage local communities in dialogue for better understanding
    • Track progress and impact of policies on indigenous suppliers
supplier-diversityregional-policiesdiversity-advocatesupplier-coordinatorprocurement-teamcommunity-outreach-team
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Strategies and tactics for improving Indirect Purchasing Operations

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Enhance supplier relationships

    • Develop a supplier relationship management program
    • Create a schedule for regular supplier performance reviews
    • Negotiate fixed-term contracts with key suppliers to minimise price fluctuations
    • Introduce a preferred supplier list to streamline purchasing decisions
    • Develop long-term partnerships with strategic suppliers
    • Implement a supplier feedback mechanism to improve collaboration
    • Conduct joint business planning sessions with suppliers
    • Establish KPIs for supplier performance evaluation
    • Engage suppliers in cost-saving initiatives and innovation projects
    • Organise annual supplier summits for relationship building and performance review

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Optimise transportation logistics

    • Analyse current transportation routes and consolidate shipments where feasible
    • Negotiate more favourable freight rates with logistics providers
    • Explore partnerships with third-party logistics providers for cost efficiency
    • Implement a transportation management system for better route planning
    • Schedule regular reviews of transportation cost versus delivery efficiency
    • Introduce a dynamic scheduling algorithm to manage transportation more effectively
    • Consider bulk ordering or consignment stocking for frequently needed items
    • Set up periodic liaison meetings with logistics providers for performance assessment
    • Invest in staff training to improve transportation management proficiency
    • Explore collaborations with nearby companies to share transportation resources

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Leverage technology for procurement efficiency

    • Enhance the electronic procurement system with AI-driven analytics for better forecasting
    • Automate repetitive procurement tasks to free up employee time
    • Use data analytics to predict usage patterns and inform purchase planning
    • Implement a robust communication platform for faster approval processes
    • Regularly update the system with real-time data from suppliers
    • Conduct training workshops for employees on new system features and technologies
    • Establish a feedback loop to continuously improve the system's functionalities
    • Introduce digital dashboards for real-time monitoring of procurement KPIs
    • Integrate e-procurement systems with financial and inventory management software
    • Conduct regular audits to ensure data accuracy and process compliance
supplier-managementlogistics-optimizationprocurement-managersupplier-relations-specialistprocurement-teamlogistics-team
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Strategies and tactics for achieving Market Leadership in the Bottled Water Industry

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Innovate Your Production Process

    • Research and implement cutting-edge, sustainable technologies for water purification and bottling
    • Conduct regular audits to ensure the highest quality standards are maintained across all products
    • Develop eco-friendly packaging solutions to reduce environmental footprint
    • Implement a waste reduction program in the production process
    • Invest in employee training to enhance efficiency and innovation in production
    • Partner with technology providers to keep up with industry trends
    • Set up a feedback loop with customers to continuously improve product quality
    • Perform a cost-benefit analysis to ensure financial sustainability of innovative practices
    • Introduce an internal reward system for employees who contribute innovative ideas
    • Regularly review and adjust production strategies to align with market demands and environmental goals

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Enhance Marketing and Customer Engagement

    • Develop a strong brand identity centred on sustainability and customer satisfaction
    • Create targeted marketing campaigns to highlight the eco-friendly aspects of your products
    • Engage with customers through social media and other digital platforms to build a community
    • Organise events and sponsorships that reinforce your company's core values and mission
    • Initiate a customer loyalty program to incentivise repeat purchases
    • Conduct market research to understand customer needs and adapt your offerings accordingly
    • Leverage global platforms to increase brand visibility in international markets
    • Collaborate with influencers and brand ambassadors who align with your company's values
    • Implement a customer feedback system to continuously improve service and product offerings
    • Measure and analyse customer satisfaction scores to refine marketing strategies

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Strengthen Community and Environmental Impact

    • Develop partnerships with local community organisations for environmental projects
    • Implement educational programs to raise awareness about environmental sustainability
    • Establish a corporate social responsibility initiative focused on health and education
    • Conduct regular assessments of the environmental impact of your operations and adjust practices
    • Invest in renewable energy sources to power production facilities
    • Organise community clean-up events to actively engage with locals
    • Innovate sustainable supply chain practices and share findings with partners
    • Monitor legislative developments and ensure compliance with all environmental regulations
    • Set up a system to measure the social impact of community initiatives
    • Recognise and reward employees and community partners who contribute to sustainability goals
sustainabilityinnovationbrand-managersustainability-officermarketing-teamproduction-team
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Strategies and tactics for establishing a national framework for survey delivery by a sole supplier

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Engage stakeholders

    • Identify key stakeholders and their interests in the survey process
    • Hold initial meetings to understand stakeholder requirements and concerns
    • Form a steering committee with representatives from each stakeholder group
    • Develop a communication plan to keep stakeholders informed and engaged
    • Establish regular feedback sessions to ensure stakeholder alignment
    • Integrate stakeholders’ insights into the framework design
    • Create a mechanism for ongoing stakeholder consultation
    • Prepare stakeholder briefing documents outlining goals and responsibilities
    • Address stakeholder concerns proactively through collaborative solutions
    • Evaluate stakeholder satisfaction regularly to guide framework improvement

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Standardise survey processes

    • Define the scope and objectives of all surveys to be conducted
    • Develop standardised survey templates for uniformity
    • Establish guidelines for survey methodology and data collection
    • Train the supplier’s staff on standard operating procedures
    • Ensure consistent branding and messaging across all surveys
    • Implement a quality assurance system to maintain high standards
    • Create a centralised database for storing survey data
    • Develop clear protocols for data privacy and security compliance
    • Test and refine survey processes through pilot programmes
    • Regularly review and update standard procedures to improve efficiency

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Select and monitor the supplier

    • Draft a comprehensive request for proposal (RFP) for suppliers
    • Establish criteria for evaluating supplier proposals
    • Conduct a thorough market analysis to identify potential suppliers
    • Invite shortlisted suppliers for presentations and discussions
    • Assess suppliers’ capability, experience, and technology suitability
    • Negotiate contract terms focusing on performance and accountability
    • Set up performance metrics and KPIs to monitor supplier delivery
    • Establish a clear process for addressing supplier performance issues
    • Conduct regular performance reviews against the set KPIs
    • Foster a collaborative relationship with the supplier for continuous improvement
frameworksupplierstakeholdersuppliersteering-committeequality-assurance-team
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Strategies and tactics for desarrollando proveedores con cero defectos

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Optimiza la evaluación de proveedores

    • Implementa un proceso riguroso de selección y evaluación de proveedores
    • Desarrolla una lista de verificación de calidad para la evaluación
    • Realiza auditorías técnicas periódicas de proveedores
    • Monitorea el rendimiento de los proveedores a lo largo del tiempo
    • Incorpora estándares de calidad internacional en la evaluación
    • Establece métricas claras para medir el rendimiento de los proveedores
    • Proporciona retroalimentación detallada a los proveedores sobre su evaluación
    • Invita a los proveedores a visitar las instalaciones de producción para comprender requisitos
    • Fomenta la transparencia y comunicación abierta con los proveedores
    • Considera la reputación e historial de calidad del proveedor durante la evaluación

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Fomenta la colaboración para mejora continua

    • Establece talleres conjuntos de mejora continua con los proveedores
    • Define metas cuantificables de mejora para los proveedores
    • Facilita sesiones de intercambio de mejores prácticas entre proveedores
    • Proporciona formación en técnicas de mejora continua a los proveedores
    • Implementa un sistema de recompensas basado en mejoras alcanzadas
    • Programa reuniones periódicas para revisar los avances en mejora continua
    • Colabora con los proveedores en proyectos de innovación conjunta
    • Comparte los logros y aprendizajes de mejora continua con todo el ecosistema de proveedores
    • Facilita la integración de herramientas tecnológicas para mejorar procesos
    • Evalúa el impacto de las iniciativas de mejora continua en la calidad del producto

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Establece un sistema sólido de estándares y procedimientos

    • Desarrolla un manual detallado de estándares y procedimientos de calidad
    • Asegura que todos los proveedores reciban y comprendan el manual de estándares
    • Estandariza los procesos de control de calidad entre todos los proveedores
    • Implementa auditorías periódicas para asegurar la adherencia a los estándares
    • Desarrolla procedimientos de contención rápidos y efectivos en caso de defectos
    • Proporciona formación continua sobre actualizaciones de estándares
    • Utiliza tecnología para facilitar el cumplimiento de los estándares
    • Comparte información de cambios de procesos o estándares con proveedores
    • Facilita un foro para que proveedores posean entrada en actualizaciones de estándares
    • Evalúa continuamente los estándares y procedimientos para adaptarlos y mejorarlos
supplier-developmentzero-defectsquality-assurance-specialistsupplier-relationship-managerprocurement-teamquality-control-team
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Strategies and tactics for implementing a 5-Year Business Continuity and Crisis Strategy Plan

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Mitigate and prepare for risks

    • Conduct comprehensive risk assessments for all business units
    • Identify critical business functions and implement redundancy measures
    • Develop and regularly update business impact analyses (BIA)
    • Create detailed business continuity and crisis management plans (BCP & CMP)
    • Set up a centralized crisis management platform for streamlined response
    • Initiate tabletop simulation exercises to test preparedness
    • Conduct joint resilience workshops with key suppliers
    • Implement preventive IT solutions to safeguard against cyber threats
    • Practice crisis scenarios to refine response strategies
    • Regularly audit and update risk mitigation measures

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Develop and enhance crisis communication

    • Design a robust communication plan for internal and external stakeholders
    • Establish a crisis communication team with defined roles and responsibilities
    • Develop clear, concise messaging templates for different crisis scenarios
    • Launch a crisis communication portal accessible by stakeholders
    • Train spokespersons for effective media handling during crises
    • Implement monitoring tools for tracking crisis-related information in real-time
    • Regularly update stakeholders through quarterly resilience reports
    • Use feedback tools to capture stakeholder sentiment during and post-crisis
    • Integrate social media platforms for wider message dissemination
    • Conduct regular communication audits to ensure clarity and effectiveness

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Leverage technology for enhanced resilience

    • Deploy redundant IT infrastructure and cloud solutions to ensure data availability
    • Integrate AI tools for improved threat detection and incident response
    • Ensure all platforms are compliant with the latest industry standards
    • Utilize advanced analytics to forecast and simulate potential disruptions
    • Establish regular software updates and patch management protocols
    • Implement AI-driven monitoring systems for real-time threat scanning
    • Define key metrics for disaster recovery performance measurement
    • Track and report on the recovery time objective (RTO) for all critical functions
    • Encourage continuous feedback from IT teams to refine technology strategies
    • Benchmark IT resilience against industry standards to identify improvement areas
resiliencerisk-managementcrisis-managerit-specialistrisk-assessment-teamcrisis-communication-team
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Strategies and tactics for expanding Sterling Tour and Travel Agency into the Kenyan Market

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Forge strategic partnerships

    • Identify and partner with a medium-sized Kenyan tour and travel agency
    • Leverage the local partner’s market knowledge and customer base
    • Align services to meet local cultural and tourist preferences
    • Ensure clear communication channels with partners
    • Negotiate mutually beneficial terms in partnership agreements
    • Engage local travel influencers to promote joint offerings
    • Create co-branded marketing materials with local partners
    • Host joint events and travel expos to increase brand visibility
    • Develop shared objectives and performance metrics
    • Regularly review and refine partnership strategies

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Adapt services to local market conditions

    • Research and understand customer preferences in Kenya
    • Develop Kenya-specific travel packages including popular destinations
    • Implement a pricing strategy that reflects local purchasing power
    • Offer flexible payment options tailored to Kenyan market needs
    • Launch culturally immersive experiences like safaris and heritage tours
    • Translate marketing materials into Swahili and other local languages
    • Align services with environmental and cultural preservation initiatives
    • Conduct training sessions for employees on local customs and practices
    • Incorporate feedback from local customers into service offerings
    • Regularly update offerings based on seasonal tourist trends

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Enhance marketing and brand awareness

    • Launch social media campaigns targeting Kenyan travellers
    • Partner with local influencers to widen digital reach
    • Participate in local and international travel expos
    • Utilise radio and print media to reach different demographics
    • Highlight local partnerships in marketing communications
    • Develop emotional and engaging storytelling content
    • Create promotional videos showcasing Kenyan attractions
    • Establish a customer referral programme
    • Leverage customer testimonials in marketing materials
    • Conduct surveys to measure brand awareness and adapt strategies
partnershipslocalizationstrategic-plannermarketing-specialistmarketing-teambusiness-development-team
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Strategies and tactics for enhancing Rowing WA Operations

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Enhance club and coach development

    • Develop effective relationships with affiliated clubs and provide resources to enhance their capabilities
    • Organise an annual series of workshops to improve club governance and management
    • Create cross-club initiatives for sport growth and development
    • Manage the Rowing WA Coaching Development Strategy to ensure sufficient accredited coaches
    • Provide opportunities for coaches to develop their skills and practical application
    • Implement the Rowing Australia Coach Accreditation Scheme in WA
    • Plan and deliver the WA Coaches Conference
    • Facilitate pathway programs for athletes from schools into clubs
    • Develop strategies to include non-traditional rowing schools
    • Design a comprehensive coxswain development approach

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Optimise regatta and event management

    • Plan and oversee all aspects of regatta delivery
    • Play a key role in national regattas hosted in WA
    • Coordinate non-regatta events like award ceremonies and development workshops
    • Develop a strategy to ensure the vibrant programming of events
    • Establish effective event management protocols and checklists
    • Facilitate training for volunteers and officials for events
    • Implement feedback systems for continuous improvement after events
    • Collaborate with vendors and sponsors for event success
    • Leverage technology for efficient event administration
    • Implement sustainable practices in event management

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Strengthen administration and strategic governance

    • Ensure compliance with government regulations and best practice sport governance principles
    • Support the CEO in strategic meetings and stakeholder interactions
    • Lead the use and optimisation of the Revolutionise Sport Membership Management System
    • Manage compliance with Working with Children legislation
    • Assist in securing grants and funding for rowing development
    • Represent Rowing WA at relevant conferences and committees
    • Develop strategic plans for athlete pathway development
    • Strengthen collaboration with Rowing WA partners and sponsors
    • Provide administrative support to staff and portfolios as needed
    • Continuously review and refine strategic objectives and outcomes
rowingdevelopmentcoachevent-managerclub-development-teamevent-management-team
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Strategies and tactics for improving the Perfume Supply Chain

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Map the entire supply chain

    • Identify and document all key suppliers in the perfume supply chain
    • Evaluate the sourcing processes for raw materials, such as essential oils and alcohol
    • Assess transportation logistics from raw materials to production facilities
    • Map the production process including bottling and packaging
    • Understand distribution networks from production to retail
    • Identify key performance indicators (KPIs) for each supply chain stage
    • Conduct a risk assessment for supply chain vulnerabilities
    • Analyse current cost structures associated with each component
    • Evaluate sustainability practices within the supply chain
    • Document all findings for stakeholder review

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Assess and optimise supply chain impact

    • Analyse the cost implications of supply chain decisions on the overall budget
    • Evaluate how sustainability practices can be improved and extended
    • Investigate the impact of supply chain practices on brand positioning
    • Conduct a competitor analysis to benchmark supply chain efficiency
    • Implement cost-saving measures such as bulk purchasing or local sourcing
    • Assess the environmental impact of logistics and transport
    • Partner with eco-friendly suppliers to enhance sustainability
    • Optimise supplier management systems for better relationship management
    • Determine areas where technology can reduce costs and improve efficiency
    • Create measurable objectives to track improvements in supply chain performance

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Develop a strategic supply chain plan

    • Align supply chain goals with overall business objectives for the brand in New Delhi
    • Develop a strategic sourcing plan focusing on key resources
    • Establish partnerships with local suppliers to reduce lead times and costs
    • Design a flexible logistics plan that accommodates demand fluctuations
    • Implement a sustainability plan that targets carbon footprint reduction
    • Create a risk management plan to mitigate potential supply chain disruptions
    • Leverage technology for real-time supply chain tracking and management
    • Design a supplier performance monitoring system with KPIs
    • Develop a communication strategy for supplier relationship management
    • Regularly review and adjust the supply chain strategy based on market and business changes
supply-chainoptimizationsupply-chain-managerprocurement-specialistlogistics-teamsustainability-team
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How to track your Supplier strategies and tactics

Having a plan is one thing, sticking to it is another.

Having a good strategy is only half the effort. You'll increase significantly your chances of success if you commit to a weekly check-in process.

A tool like Tability can also help you by combining AI and goal-setting to keep you on track.

More strategies recently published

We have more templates to help you draft your team goals and OKRs.

Planning resources

OKRs are a great way to translate strategies into measurable goals. Here are a list of resources to help you adopt the OKR framework:

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