CIPS Updated L4M6 Exam Questions and Answers by reyan

Explanation

Supplier relationships can result in value for money in the reduction of waste and in innovation developed as part of collaborative projects. Remember that in CIPS waste doesn’t necessarily mean physical waste (as in stuff you don’t want any more). There are 7 types of waste including waiting, inventory, transportation etc. So when you develop a relationship with a supplier, this can reduce waste (e.g. you may be able to get deliveries quicker by integrating your ordering system with the supplier’s, or you might reduce transportation by agreeing a Consignment stock). Having a good relationship with a supplier isn’t necessarily going to get you a reduction in cost or better payment terms. See p.70 for more details on this- there’s a short list of ways in which good supplier relationships can bring value for money to a business.

Explanation

This would reduce inventory (holding stock). Inventory is considered a business waste because it costs money to store stuff (e.g. paying the rent on a warehouse, electricity to light it up etc). If you can reduce the need to store materials and components on site- you reduce costs. You also save time because you get deliveries when you need them- you don’t need to allow for staff unpacking things, storing them away, then going back to them later when they need them. For more information on the 7 Business Wastes see p.70. This comes up in a couple of modules, so it’s worth remembering.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

Differentiation involves offering unique products or services that are valued by customers, allowing the company to charge premium prices. This strategy focuses on uniqueness and added value rather than competing solely on cost.

Partnerships are built on trust and transparency, with shared benefits such as cost reductions and improved processes. Adversarial relationships, in contrast, focus on price and contractual obligations.