Try it while you read
Open the free Supplier Self-Assessment tool and click Load sample: it reproduces the case study below.
Theory: maturity, not yes or no
A yes/no checklist tells you whether something exists. A maturity scale tells you whether it works. The supplier assessment rates 30 questions in six areas: quality system, development and launch, production, measurement and testing, supplier management, and problem solving and logistics.
Each area is scored as a percentage of the maximum points and the overall result decides the risk class. Some questions are critical: a valid certificate, FMEA, SPC on special characteristics, calibrated gauges, 8D in the required time. A critical question rated 0 caps the result at class C, because one missing basic is a risk regardless of the total.
Key point
Step by step
- Send the questionnaire as a self-assessment before the visit, or fill it in during the audit.
- Verify on site the answers rated 3 and 4: ask for the record, the chart, the calibration certificate.
- Read the profile: the weakest area shows where the risk is, not the total.
- Agree the gaps as actions with owner and date, and plan a re-assessment.
- Connect the result to the scorecard: a class C supplier with good delivery figures is still a risk.
Example: new machining supplier
A new machining supplier scores 74 % overall, which would be class B. But SPC on special characteristics is rated 0: control charts exist only for the PPAP. The critical question caps the result at class C. Nomination is made conditional on SPC for the three special characteristics with a reaction plan, verified on site before the PPAP.
Common mistakes
- Accepting a self-assessment without checking the high ratings.
- Looking only at the total and missing a weak area.
- No follow-up date for the gaps.
Frequently asked questions
What do the ratings 0 to 4 mean?
0 not in place, 1 partly in place, 2 in place but not consistently applied, 3 applied with records, 4 effective and improved based on results.
Is this the same as a VDA 6.3 potential analysis?
No. The questionnaire is a quick capability check written in our own words. For new suppliers of critical parts, follow up with a potential analysis or a full process audit on site.
How often should suppliers be re-assessed?
Before nomination, after serious quality problems or major changes at the supplier, and periodically for high-risk suppliers as part of the audit plan.