Supplier evaluation compares potential or existing suppliers against defined commercial, technical, service and risk criteria. It supports selection, approval, performance review and renewal decisions.
Which criteria are common?
- Technical fit and quality
- Capacity and delivery
- Total cost and commercial terms
- Financial and compliance risk
- Service and improvement capability
- Continuity and strategic fit
How can a weighted score be calculated?
Assume quality has a 40% weight with a score of 90, cost has 35% with a score of 80, and delivery has 25% with a score of 70. The weighted result is 90 × 0.40 + 80 × 0.35 + 70 × 0.25 = 81.5.
Illustrative supplier evaluation score
| Criterion | Weight and score | Weighted points |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | 40% × 90 | 36 |
| Cost | 35% × 80 | 28 |
| Delivery | 25% × 70 | 17.5 |
| Total | 100% | 81.5 |
A numeric score supports comparison but does not override mandatory requirements or evidence quality.
How should criteria be designed?
Set criteria and weights before reviewing bids, define scoring anchors and identify pass-fail requirements. Use reviewers with relevant expertise and manage conflicts.
What should the decision record contain?
Retain evidence, scores, comments, clarifications, exceptions and approval. Distinguish unsupported claims from verified capability.
