What is the aim of establishing criteria for external providers?

Establishing criteria for external providers is fundamentally aimed at ensuring the quality and reliability of the products and services they offer. This is crucial in a quality management system, as the performance and capability of suppliers directly impact the organization's ability to deliver quality outputs to its customers. By defining clear criteria, organizations can assess and select suppliers whose services meet the set specifications and standards, which helps to minimize risks related to poor quality. This practice not only enhances the performance of the supply chain but also fosters long-term relationships and trust with reliable providers.

While there may be ancillary benefits such as cost reduction or maintaining diversity within the supplier base, the primary focus remains on quality assurance to meet customer expectations and regulatory requirements. Limiting communication does not align with the goals of quality management, which emphasizes effective communication and collaboration with suppliers for continuous improvement.