Managing Vendor Relationships

Many vendors today refer to themselves as partners and often they truly are. Other times however, the partnership ends when the opportunities for new revenue cease.

In order to avoid a difficult relationship with your vendor there are a few things you can do when choosing and working with vendors that will be helpful:

First, it is OK to go with your gut. You want people that can handle the job and make your project a huge success. Ask yourself these questions when selecting a vendor:

Does their work impress you?
Do you value their involvement?
Are you getting the results you want?
Are you comfortable letting them interact with your employees and management team?

According to Howard Harrison of the International Association of Business Communicators, the answers to these questions alone can tell you if you are working with the right vendor.

Next, it is also OK to use people who make your job easier. When the offerings are similar in terms of cost and quality, go with the vendor who will provide the service that makes dealing with them stress-free.

It is also a good idea to broaden your vendor base. You may be happy with the vendor you currently use, but don’t put all your eggs in one basket. You never know when they will become part of a merger or acquisition and things might change drastically. Keep a few vendors in the mix so you don’t get caught in a difficult position.

Every once in a while, at a trade show or a vendor meeting, say “yes” to a new vendor. Take a call now and then and maybe even a meeting. Not only will this allow you to broaden your network of vendors, but it will allow you to see what new ideas are out there that your current vendor might not be pursuing.

Managing IT vendors is no small task. The lines of communication that are required go above and beyond that which is usually necessary for a typical procurement process. Make sure you clearly communicate not only the goals and priorities of the organization but your own needs as well. Also keep in mind that the vendor has goals and priorities as well. Communicating these issues makes the relationship run smoothly.