Consider the use of partnerships with customers to improve competitiveness. Discuss this within a group scenario using the following guidelines:

a Make a list of companies in your chosen company’s industry known to undertake supplier development. This should include all its customers and other companies that are potential customers.

b Make a list of all the types of development and improvement that your chosen company would like help with.

c Assemble these lists along the two sides of a grid, following the example shown in Figure 9.10. Mark on the grid where each of the companies is able to provide the necessary help.