Here are a few sourcing headaches I've encountered. These are from the larger article I've posted:
Tight timelines – If you're working on a first time deal with a new supplier, DO NOT take on this project if the timeline is tight. 99% of the time you will lose money.
Sampling from scratch – Sampling from scratch without quality designs from a professional is usually a great exercise in frustration for both you and your supplier. In general, having your designs in order before you approach a supplier will save you time and stress.
Not supplier's core competency, or core direction – Unless you have a great relationship with a supplier already and they have a proven track record in expanding their repertoire, do not seek to source products from a supplier that are not part of their core competency or strategic direction.
Quality fade – It is common to see product quality degrade during the life of a supplier relationship. Take initiative to avoid this by making independent QC and surprise inspections part of your SOP (standard operating procedure)
Gray market products and fakes – Stay away from these types of products. The people who sell them usually don’t have integrity to begin with. What reason do you have to trust they will fulfill contractual obligations? Brand name products should be bought through authorized distribution channels. Fake products, especially if you know their fakes, should be avoided at all costs.
Poor project management – Professionals working directly with suppliers, particularly on product development, should be organized and communicate deadlines clearly and consistently. Poor project management is a great way to ruin the chance of executing your current project, and could ruin the opportunity for any potential future deals with this supplier as well.
