Make Sure Supplier Samples Are Tested Fairly

Buyers often need to obtain competitive product evaluations before selecting a supplier. The choice of the best supplier includes factors in addition to determining the best product. For example, the time for delivery, the price of the product, the supplier’s reputation and financial strength, and other factors. But setting aside those other factors, the evaluation of the product by the buyer or by users should be done as fairly as possible, without bias. To do so, a blind study should be made when possible.

All brand names, product names, advertising, and supplier and manufacturer logos should be removed so that the evaluators cannot determine the name of the manufacturer or supplier. Each product should then be marked by the individual controlling the test with a different random letter or number and recorded with the corresponding supplier name. Of course, it is sometimes difficult to establish complete anonymity because some products have printed or stamped part numbers that identify the maker. Some items have unique features that are familiar to existing users of the product. Where possible, printed or stamped numbers should be covered up. Sometimes unique features can be hidden.

Blind comparisons are easier for liquids and bulk materials. Blind comparisons are usually possible for products produced by the equipment under consideration. In other words, if the equipment produces the best product, it is highly probable that it is the best equipment to purchase, everything else being equal.

A good quality control function should be aware of the need to conduct unbiased testing, but it is a good idea to have evaluations done by several groups and compare the results. You may also wish to use an outside testing service for their opinion and to verify in-house testing results. Determine the methods and procedures used by an outside service before using them.