How to prepare for a supplier review meeting

A supplier review that is really just a "how are things going?" catch-up is a wasted meeting. Here's how to prep properly.

1. Pull the record

Open the supplier's register entry. Confirm services, owner, contract, renewal date and spend are current.

2. Gather performance evidence

List actual issues, incidents and wins from the last review period. Vague impressions aren't evidence.

3. Confirm commercials

Is pricing what you expected? Are there unused entitlements or overages?

4. Think about alternatives

You don't need to switch — but knowing the market keeps the conversation grounded.

5. Bring specific questions

Use the Supplier Review Checklist to structure the meeting.

6. Capture the outcome

Every review should end with recorded decisions and a next review date — not just a "good chat".