What is a characteristic of a Lean supplier partnership?

A characteristic of a Lean supplier partnership is the removal of incoming inspection. This practice is based on the profound trust established between the company and its suppliers. In a Lean environment, the focus is on reducing waste, improving efficiency, and fostering collaboration. By eliminating incoming inspection, organizations can streamline processes and minimize delays associated with checking the quality of incoming materials. This indicates a high level of confidence in the supplier's ability to deliver quality goods consistently, which aligns with Lean principles that advocate for just-in-time practices and the reduction of unnecessary steps in the supply chain.

The establishment of such partnerships often involves collaborative agreements where suppliers are part of the quality assurance process, thus making the removal of incoming inspections a logical step in promoting efficiency. This also encourages suppliers to maintain high standards in product quality, as their reputation and continued business depend on it. In contrast, the other options do not align with Lean principles, which advocate for minimizing waste and fostering seamless collaboration between suppliers and buyers.