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CIPS L4M6 Exam Topics

CIPS L4M6 Exam Overview :

Exam Name: Supplier Relationships
Exam Code: L4M6
Certifications: CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply Certification
See Expected Questions: CIPS L4M6 Expected Questions in Actual Exam

CIPS L4M6 Exam Objectives :

Section Objectives
1.0 Understand the dynamics of relationships in supply chains 1.1  Differentiate between different types of commercial relationships in supply chains
  •     Internal and external relationships
  •     The relationship spectrum
  •     The relationship life cycle

1.2  Appraise portfolio analysis techniques to assess relationships in supply chains
  •     Matrices to identify supply, supplier and purchaser positioning
  •     Developing action plans

1.3  Identify the competitive forces that impact on relationships in supply chains
  •     Sources of competitive advantage
  •     Competitive forces: sources of competitive rivalry, bargaining power of buyers and suppliers, threat of new entrants and potential substitutes
  •     STEEPLE factors that impact on supply chains (social, technological, economic, environmental, political, legislative and ethical)

1.4  Compare the sources of added value that can be achieved through supply chain relationships
  •     The link between relationships as a process and the achievement of added value outcomes
  •     Sources of added value: pricing and cost management, improving quality, timescales, quantities and place considerations in procurements from external suppliers
  •     The link between organisations in supply networks
2.0 Understand processes and procedures for successful working with stakeholders 2.1  Analyse the purpose of organisational procedures and processes in sourcing goods and/or services
  •     Achieving value for money
  •     Supplier identification, assessment and selection
  •     Selection and awarding criteria

2.2  Compare team management techniques to ensure positive stakeholder relationships
  •     Positive relationships through positive contributions
  •     Overcome resistance
  •     Identify conflict and coping processes
  •     Cross-organisational teams
  •     Stages of team development – forming, storming, norming, performing

2.3  Compare the practical considerations of stakeholder management
  •     Accurate cost modelling
  •     Reduced impact of price fluctuations
  •     Early supplier involvement in product and/or service development
  •     Knowledge transfer and access to innovation
  •     Common metrics to drive change for both organisations
  •     Improve risk management and continuity of supply

2.4  Identify the processes for terminating stakeholder relationships
  •     Reasons for termination
  •     The process of termination
  •     Timing
  •     Relationship impacts – amicable vs. hostile
  •     Legal considerations – finances, confidentiality, IPR, security, employee rights
  •     Succession issues – continuity of supplies
3.0 Understand the concept of partnering 3.1  Analyse the concept of partnering and where it is a suitable approach
  •     The three types of partnering
  •     Partnering vs. ‘traditional’ contracting agreement
  •     The drivers for partnership sourcing
  •     Advantages for purchaser and supplier•
  •     High spend
  •     High risk
  •     Technically complicated supplies
  •     New services
  •     Fast-changing technology
  •     Restricted markets

3.2  Appraise the process of partnership implementation
  •     Identify items potentially suitable for partnership sourcing
  •     ‘Sell’ the philosophy to senior management and other functions of the organisation
  •     Define the standards that potential partners will be expected to meet
  •     Establish joint commitment to the partnership
  •     Reviews and audits

3.3  Identify the reasons why partnerships fail
  •     Poor communication
  •     Lack of senior management support and trust
  •     Lack of commitment by one or both parties
  •     Poor planning
  •     Lack of value-added benefit
  •     Changes in the market
  •     Corporate cultural differences
  •     Logistics and distance barriers
Official Information https://www.cips.org/qualifications/diploma-in-procurement-supply/supplier-relationships/

Updates in the CIPS L4M6 Exam Topics:

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