What Is Supplier Qualification?

Supplier qualification is the evidence-based decision that a supplier can meet defined commercial, technical, quality, compliance and delivery requirements.

Supplier qualification is the evidence-based decision that a supplier can meet defined commercial, technical, quality, compliance and delivery requirements. Qualification is specific to a scope, facility and period.

Supplier Qualification: what the sourcing record should show
AreaWhat to record
DecisionSet pass, fail and conditional requirements before collecting evidence. A conditional approval should name the corrective action, owner and deadline.
EvidenceVerify legal status, beneficial ownership where required, capability, relevant certifications, capacity, quality systems, references, insurance and financial or continuity risks.
Watch pointQualification does not guarantee future performance. It establishes eligibility and must be followed by monitoring.

When the term matters

Set pass, fail and conditional requirements before collecting evidence. A conditional approval should name the corrective action, owner and deadline.

Checks before approval

Verify legal status, beneficial ownership where required, capability, relevant certifications, capacity, quality systems, references, insurance and financial or continuity risks.

Qualification does not guarantee future performance. It establishes eligibility and must be followed by monitoring.

Related terms

strategic sourcing, supplier prequalification, landed cost.