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Interim Internal Purchasing Guidelines > 3 Supplier Relations
3.1.1 General
It is the intent of the Postal Service to establish strong, mutually beneficial
relations with its suppliers in order to meet its business and competitive
objectives. Postal Service purchases are intended to foster partnerships with
suppliers in which both parties work toward a common goal. The nature of
the partnership is determined by the potential impact of the supplier's
performance on the Postal Service's competitive and financial position, and
therefore some partnerships are closer and more interdependent than others.
The type of partnership will also determine other aspects of the relationship,
such as communications, purchasing method, performance incentives, and
rewards for exceptional quality. Contracting officers must manage supplier
relations to ensure that business and competitive objectives are met or
exceeded.
3.1.2 Supply Chain Management
The Postal Service uses the supply chain management business philosophy
and associated business practices to further its business and competitive
objectives. In general terms, the supply chain is a series of business
organizations working together to create and provide value to customers.
Supply chain management is the analysis and adjustment of the purchasing
process and supply stream as required to meet customer demand and lower
overall costs.
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