Quality for repeat orders

The second order may differ from the first if you do not follow up. Make sure quality stays steady.

Fix the reference

• Keep an approved sample of every product and colour.
• Fix the specification in the purchase order: fabric, weight, colour and measurements.
• Agree the acceptable defect rate (AQL).

Inspect before shipping

Keep the habit of pre shipment inspection: yourself or with an inspection company, with an illustrated report. Finding a mistake before the goods leave is far cheaper.

Track complaints

Record customer complaints and returns by batch. If one cause repeats, put it to the supplier before the next order.

Exercise

Write an eight point inspection checklist for your product and agree an AQL with the supplier. Decide who inspects.