Vehicle manufacturer – supplier quality failures

Our client was receiving many complaints from the production line regarding items supplied by 5 suppliers. We were asked to resolve the disputes with the suppliers, after they alleged that it was not their problem. We instigated a complete review of the quality system, commencing with the specification and going through manufacture, installation and warranty claims. The suppliers were absolved from blame. All the problems lay with our client. Wrong drawing issue numbers had been issued, the transit packaging was inadequate, the incoming inspection regime was inadequate and manufacturing shop-floor handling was inadequate. Supplier relationships with our client were dramatically improved and the quality issue was resolved. Not the outcome that was expected but nevertheless it was excellent.