PECM Issue 42 2020 | Seite 23

Next, further analysis will determine the critical stock to hold, identify parts alternatives, review stock obsolescence and order frequency on items, establish optimum levels and make recommendations on quantities versus reduced orders. Based on a previously conducted audit you should then be presented with an appropriate inventory management strategy that can be seamlessly integrated into your business. The results should provide clear and tangible benefits to your organisation. Lastly, any results of any recommendations your vendor managed service experts suggest should be fully quantifiable by value over time, with cost savings and benefits set against agreed parameters. WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A SERVICE PROVIDER Making sure you’re investing in a service that works for everyone involved can often be difficult. So first, take the time to consider all vending and inventory related company challenges that you’re currently facing. By doing this, you’ll have a better understanding of the help you need as well as what you should expect from a vendor managed service. Quality: When investing in any service or product, quality is key. Expect a good company to be engaging, attentive and quick to respond to queries and questions. However, although a good indicator of the quality of the company is through their communications, you also need to take the time to look at the actual quality of the product and service, from the range of products available, through to the vending machines themselves and to the all important service behind the vending (often an area where suppliers fall down). If you’re able, try and see the service or product in action and ask to speak to existing customers. Knowledge: From a good vendor managed service provider, along with quality it’s also important to have knowledge. Knowledge can come in two halves: knowledge from the company and knowledge from you, the service receiver. Naturally, you should expect a good vendor managed service provider to have an in-depth understanding of the products and the issues you face when it comes to consumables, but don’t assume they do. Ask some searching questions and if they’re hesitant about answering or cannot direct you to someone who can, they may not be as knowledgeable as you might think. On the other hand, a part of the knowledge comes from you. As mentioned earlier, it helps to have an idea of what you want to achieve with this service. Ultimately, this will make the process quicker and more successful. Take the time to consider your exact needs and how you need the supply to work. Understanding: Similar to knowledge, understanding refers more to the service and, more importantly, how well a service provider can help with your current situation. A good vendor managed service provider should be able to provide an understanding of your situation and should not only suggest how they can help but should also give extra support past the initial service. For a provider to show understanding of your unique situation, it often means they have both in- depth knowledge and hands-on experience, which is invaluable. By managing all your general maintenance consumables, Brammer Buck & Hickman’s Vendor Managed Services can help generate cost savings, productivity and efficiency improvements. For more information or to request a demonstration of any of the Vendor Managed Services through Brammer Buck and Hickman contact 0870 240 2100 or email at [email protected] Issue 42 PECM 23