L4M6 CIPS Supplier Relationships Free Practice Exam Questions (2025 Updated)

Explanation

Designing the specification is not a stage in the relationship cycle- this would be done before the relationship begins. There are 6 stages of the relationship cycle; on-boarding, qualification,segmentation and risk management, performance management, development and innovation, phase out. P.13

The primary objective of cost modelling is to dissect and comprehend the components that constitute a supplier's pricing. By understanding the supplier's pricing strategy, the buyer can identify cost drivers, negotiate more effectively, and seek opportunities for cost savings. This approach aligns with the CIPS L4M6 guidelines, emphasizing the importance of transparency and collaboration in supplier relationships.

An amicable approach is critical when alternative suppliers are limited or when ongoing collaboration is required during the termination period. Maintaining positive relations ensures smooth operations and protects reputations in the marketplace.

Adding value involves enhancing customer experience through excellent service, providing differentiated product features, and offering convenience. These align with procurement strategies aimed at driving customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Obtaining multiple quotations ensures value for money by comparing suppliers based on cost, quality, and other criteria. It promotes competitive pricing and informed decision-making.

Explanation

The correct answer is ‘greater creativity’. A synergy is the concept that the value and performance of two companies combined will be greater than the sum of the separate individual parts. P.160

Explanation

Two invalid reasons are; one late delivery and a change in senior management. Valid reasons to terminate a relationship are listed on p.107 and include the three listed here, as well as a material breach, damage to reputation and the supplier merges or is acquired by another company.

Explanation

The correct answer is ‘Yes- IPR is a valid concern for both parties but will survive the termination of the agreement’ (p.112). See the section on ‘Legal considerations’ in chapter 2.4

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

During the onboarding stage:

Pre-qualifying and Assessing Capability:Ensures the supplier can meet the organization's requirements.

Building Trusting Relationships:Establishing open communication and trust sets the foundation for a successful partnership.

Keeping information confidential (Option 1) and focusing solely on the buyer's goals (Option 3) can hinder collaboration.

Contracts are normally terminated when their obligations have been fulfilled. Termination due to one late delivery or management changes would be unreasonable unless specified in the contract. Trading with other parties is common unless exclusivity clauses exist.

The Restricted and Two-stage procedures involve a PQQ stage to shortlist suppliers before issuing an ITT. This approach is common for contracts requiring stringent supplier qualifications.

Explanation

The correct answer is ‘accommodating’. This QUESTION NO: is based on the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict model on p.87. This comes up quite a bit in the exam. It is comprised of 5 techniques for dealing with conflict; competing, collaborating, compromising, avoiding and accommodating. In this instance, the supplier should have a high degree of co-cooperativeness and a low degree of assertiveness as the long-term relationship is very important- more important than the outcome of the disputed invoice.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

Partnership sourcing is a strategic approach that emphasizes long-term collaboration between buyers and suppliers to achieve mutual benefits. While achieving a competitive acquisition cost is a component, it is not the sole objective. Partnership sourcing also focuses on:

Quality Improvement:Ensuring that products or services meet or exceed quality standards.

Innovation:Collaborating on new product development and process improvements.

Risk Management:Sharing information to anticipate and mitigate risks.

Supply Chain Efficiency:Streamlining processes to reduce lead times and inventory levels.

Therefore, while cost is important, partnership sourcing encompasses a broader range of objectives aimed at creating value for both parties.

Explanation

Intellectual Property Rights include; Patents, Copywrite, Trademarks and Trade Secrets. P.114

Explanation

The correct answer is ‘Yes- the Public Sector is regulated by EU procurement regulations which prohibits this’. This is stated on p.122. Please note that this study guide and exam were written before Brexit. Once Brexit happens, nobody knows what will happen with this.

Partnership sourcing is ideal for high-spend, high-risk situations where collaboration mitigates risks and maximizes value through innovation, efficiency, and trust.

Explanation

Using an external supplier always comes with increased risk, as you become dependant upon them, and have less control over their performance (compared to an in-house team). In this example Harry will have the increased risk that the contract cleaners turn up late to their shifts, or don't do a good job. However, there is no reason to believe that the supplier will not perform as well as an internal team- we don't have enough information from the QUESTION NO: for this to be true. What is true is the RISK isgreater. The other answers are incorrect; the QUESTION NO: doesn't indicate whether outsourcing the cleaning will be more or less expensive for Harry. Allowing staff to focus on other areas is an advantage not a disadvantage. See p.4 for more information on 'External Suppliers'

Explanation

Supplier development is time-consuming and resource-intensive so should only be done with strategic suppliers. P.14

Buyers with a strong brand profile and adherence to ethical standards attract suppliers, as they provide market prestige and assurance of fair practices. This aligns with CIPS's emphasis on ethical procurement.