ISM Exam INTE Topic 3 Question 5 Discussion

Actual exam question for ISM's INTE exam

Question #: 5
Topic #: 3

A supplier with a previously good performance record has recently been shipping parts with a number of flaws, making them unusable for production. The firm's supply manager would like to resolve these problems before taking more drastic measures. Which of the following actions should the supply manager take FIRST'

AExplore possible root causes, including changes in the supplier's production processes

BAsk engineering to review tolerances on non-critical specifications and relax them if possible

CTest the parts at an independent laboratory and notify the supplier of the results

DRe-work the parts in-house and bill the supplier for any costs incurred

Show Suggested Answer

Suggested Answer: A

When a previously reliable supplier starts delivering flawed parts, the first step should be to ex-plore possible root causes. This approach helps in identifying any recent changes in the supplier's production processes, materials, or workforce that might be contributing to the quality issues. By understanding the root cause, the supply manager can work with the supplier to implement correc-tive actions, ensuring long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes. This collaborative approach also maintains a good relationship with the supplier and encourages continuous improvement. Reference:

* Monczka, R. M., Handfield, R. B., Giunipero, L. C., & Patterson, J. L. (2015). Purchasing and Supply Chain Management. Cengage Learning.

* Burt, D. N., Petcavag

by Lenna at Jul 05, 2024, 05:29 AM

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5 months ago

B is a Band-Aid solution. We need to address the real issue, not just relax specs. A is the way to go to fix this long-term.

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Shaniqua

4 months ago

C) Testing the parts independently can also provide valuable information for the supplier

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India

4 months ago

A) Once we know the root cause, we can work on a permanent solution

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Pok

4 months ago

B) I agree, we need to get to the bottom of this issue with the supplier

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Rasheeda

4 months ago

A) Explore possible root causes, including changes in the supplier's production processes

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6 months ago

A seems like the best option to get to the root of the problem. Can't just jump to reworking or testing without understanding what changed on the supplier's end.

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Elli

5 months ago

Definitely, jumping to reworking or testing without knowing the root cause could be a waste of time and resources.

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Eveline

5 months ago

I agree, we need to figure out what's causing the issues first.

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