Learn to evaluate sellers over time by analyzing QC notes and defect rates.
Introduction: Turning Data into Decisions
Your OrientDig spreadsheet is more than a log; it's a powerful dashboard for supplier management. By systematically tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) like quality control (QC) notes and defect rates, you can move from subjective impressions to objective, data-driven seller comparisons. This guide will walk you through the process.
Core Metrics for Seller Evaluation
1. Defect Rate
Calculation:
Track this per shipment and calculate a rolling average
2. QC Notes Analysis
Categorize notes from your inspectors:
- Major Flaws:
- Minor Flaws:
- Consistency Notes:
- Minor Flaws:
3. Trend Over Time
Quality is not static. Is the seller improving, deteriorating, or staying consistent? Look for patterns linked to order size, product complexity, or production speed.
Step-by-Step Analysis Process
- Data Hygiene:Seller Name,
Shipment Date,Units Received,Defective Units,QC Notes. - Quarterly Segmentation:
- Calculate & Visualize:
- Compute quarterly defect rates for each seller.
- Create a simple line chart for each seller to visualize the trend.
- Use a highlight or tag system in your sheet to code QC notes by severity.
- Comparative Review:
- Calculate & Visualize:
Interpreting the Data: A Practical Scenario
Consider two sellers in your OrientDig sheet:
| Seller | Avg. Defect Rate (Last 4 Qtrs) | Common QC Notes | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supplier A | 2.1% | "Minor color variation", "Small packaging scratch" | Stable (Rate steady, notes consistent) |
| Supplier B | 1.8% | "Occasionally loose wiring", "Inconsistent assembly" | Worsening (Major flaw frequency up 15%) |
Verdict:Supplier BSupplier A, with predictable minor issues, may be the preferable choice for reliable bulk orders.
Actionable Insights and Next Steps
Use your analysis to:
- Negotiate:
- Allocate Orders:
- Improve Collaboration:
- Allocate Orders: