To avoid missed vendor deadlines, 1Conduct regular capacity audits to ensure suppliers can meet requirements. 2.Set clear deadlines with consequences to promote accountability. 3.Track On-Time In-Full (OTIF) scores monthly to evaluate reliability. Maintain visibility at all production stages for early issue detection. 4,Use a 70/30 order split between primary and backup suppliers to reduce risk and ensure continuity. These steps enhance vendor performance and ensure timely deliveries.

if a vendor is consistently late in delivering goods, i will handle the issue with an approach that emphasizes open communication and long-term cooperation. i will discuss directly with the vendor to understand the root cause of the problem and find a solution together, rather than immediately changing the vendor. in the long run, this builds a relationship of mutual respect and support. this approach is in line with the value of human resources as it focuses on developing relationships and trust. this is a more efficient way than constantly changing partners, because building a solid cooperation is more beneficial for the sustainability of the organization.

Having a issues like missing deadlines by vendors is common and expected in the business. But what’s differentiate the good from the pro salesman is not having the knowledge to deal with such as having contingency plans. That’s why I would prefer personally, To have great communication with any vendors small or big because one day you might need them. And when you need them you might throw favors out in order to fulfill your orders.

Gather Data: Document all instances of missed deadlines, including the reasons provided, communication records, and the impact on your operations. Ask the Vendor: Schedule a candid meeting to understand their challenges (e.g., supply chain bottlenecks, staffing shortages, unrealistic timelines).

I would immediately conduct a root cause analysis with the vendor to identify bottlenecks and set clear corrective actions. If the issue persists, I’d escalate to alternative sourcing options to protect timelines and client trust.

I’ve dealt with this while managing content delivery timelines for clients. When a vendor missed repeated deadlines, I stopped assuming it was just disorganization, and started asking better questions. Turned out, their bandwidth was stretched across too many clients. We restructured the workflow, built in buffer time, and clarified non negotiable deadlines. I also created a shortlist of backup collaborators to avoid bottlenecks. Sometimes the fix isn’t replacing the vendor , it’s resetting the relationship with clearer communication.

If your vendor keeps missing deadlines, don’t just remind them again get proactive. Start by having a clear, honest conversation about what’s really causing the delays. Maybe they’re overloaded, facing supply issues, or misaligned on priorities. Once you know why, work together to set realistic timelines and check-in points. At the same time, don’t wait around line up alternatives so you’re not stuck if things don’t improve. Holding vendors accountable isn’t about blame; it’s about protecting your business and keeping things moving.

I’m a small business and I have encountered huge problems on one project where I was for the first time completely dependent on another business in the early stages. In 2 main areas I was let down. 1 the partner was ill - so I tooled up and did the work myself. The 2nd didn’t prioritise my small project. I had a meeting with them and took a leaf out of my mother’s book. I shook my head slowly and told the CEO in a calm voice how very disappointed I was. I realised another constraint was that they had never done anything like jewellery projects before. (Living on a small island in the Mediterranean means often there a no alternatives to work with) Channeling my mother was what turned the CEO into a willing partner.

First, stop chasing excuses. If a vendor keeps missing deadlines — it’s either process, pressure, or priority. 🔹 Process? Fix it together once — and write it down. 🔹 Pressure? Restructure volumes or window flexibility. 🔹 Priority? That’s a respect issue — and no SLA fixes that. Delays like compounding debt. You don’t “chase” it — you restructure the agreement, set clear penalties, and make the SLA enforceable by ops, not just by contract.