Before the final signing of a contract with a supplier or contractor, review their status to make sure they are still capable of delivering as originally discussed.

They may have tendered or quoted a long time ago and things may have changed (such as their workload, delivery schedules, material costs etc).

Even if you are still within the validity of the quote, they may have now booked a lot more work and may struggle to meet your expected delivery schedule. Suppliers or contractors may have said they can meet the price, but often the delivery time will slip. So check if they are still capable.

Tagged with: delivery schedule • price • status • supplier • workload

Filed under: Contractors • Cost • Procurement

Recognize when you or your team don’t have the expertise to accomplish something and get help.

This could be either within the company or from outside experts.

Check with internal experienced people first for contacts.

When buying specialized equipment, make sure the supplier is available for installation advice and commissioning assistance (It is often preferable to get them to commission)

Tagged with: commissioning • contacts • equipment • expertise • experts • installation • supplier

Filed under: Procurement

When preparing a tender, signing a contract, or making a purchase order, be careful to check a potential client’s or contractor’s track record. They may be a known litigator.

Your company may keep a record of problem companies.

Preference would be to find an alternative supplier/contractor, or to not pursue the project.

If there is no alternative then you must be extra careful with the wording of the contract. You should also have senoir management review and approve the contract before signing it.

Tagged with: Client • Contract • contractor • litigator • supplier

Filed under: Contract