THE ROLE OF THE CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT TOOLS OF PROCESSES IN BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS IN SUPPLY CHAIN

Background: The aim of this paper is to determine the importance of the quality management and environmental management systems as well as operational improvement tools (such as TPS, Six Sigma, and Lean Management) in building partnerships in supply chain.

Methods: This paper contains the results of survey in companies operating in Poland and an analysis of the requirements for suppliers in the implementation of the quality and environmental management systems elements as well as recommendation for them to implement process improvement tools (such as elements of the TPS, the concept of Lean Management and Six Sigma methodologies).

Results: The results of the survey and the analysis of the examples show that companies that are buyers in the B2B market often define the very individualized to suppliers needs through detailed specifications defining the requirements for quality assurance, performance increases, (for example, shortening implementation cycles), efficiency (cost reduction), safety, reducing the negative impact on the environment.

Conclusions: The effectiveness of the action on improving the quality of processes and products by building relationships with suppliers depends largely on the support provided to them. To achieve these objectives many companies introduce special development programs for suppliers.