Procurement Glossary
Quality audits: systematic evaluation of supplier quality
November 19, 2025
Quality audits are systematic reviews of suppliers' quality management systems and processes. They serve to objectively assess quality capability and form an important basis for strategic procurement decisions. Find out below what quality audits involve, which methods are used and how they help to minimize risk.
Key Facts
- Systematic evaluation of quality management systems at suppliers
- Basis for sound supplier selection and development
- Reduction of quality risks in the supply chain
- Documented evidence for compliance requirements
- Continuous improvement of supplier relationships
Contents
Definition: Quality audits
Quality audits are structured and documented evaluation procedures for checking the quality capability of suppliers.
Key features of quality audits
Quality audits are characterized by their systematic approach. They include the evaluation of quality management systems, production processes and organizational structures. The audits follow standardized procedures and deliver objective, comprehensible results.
- Structured evaluation criteria according to ISO standards
- Documented audit reports with recommendations for action
- On-site inspections and process analyses
- Evaluation of quality culture and employee qualifications
Quality audits vs. supplier evaluation
While supplier evaluation is often based on key figures, quality audits focus on an in-depth analysis of quality processes. They supplement quantitative evaluation procedures with qualitative assessments of quality capability.
Importance of quality audits in Procurement
In modern supplier management, quality audits are indispensable for minimizing risk. They create transparency about the actual performance of suppliers and enable well-founded decisions to be made when selecting suppliers.
Methods and procedures for quality audits
The implementation of quality audits follows structured methods and proven procedures for the systematic evaluation of supplier quality.
Audit planning and preparation
A successful audit plan forms the basis for effective quality audits. Preparation includes the definition of audit objectives, the selection of qualified auditors and the determination of evaluation criteria.
- Development of specific audit checklists
- Scheduling and resource allocation
- Preliminary analysis of supplier documentation
Implementation of the audit
The actual supplier audit is carried out through systematic on-site inspections and structured interviews. Processes, documentation and the practical implementation of quality standards are reviewed.
Evaluation and tracking
The evaluation results in a detailed audit report with specific improvement measures. An audit score for suppliers makes it possible to objectively compare the results.
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Important KPIs for quality audits
The effectiveness of quality audits is measured using specific key figures that enable continuous improvement.
Audit coverage and frequency
The audit coverage rate shows the proportion of audited suppliers in the total number of strategically important partners. An appropriate audit frequency ensures up-to-date assessments of supplier quality.
- Percentage of audited A-suppliers per year
- Average time between follow-up audits
- Number of audits carried out per quarter
Audit quality and follow-up
The implementation rate of the audit recommendations measures the effectiveness of the quality audits. In addition, the development of supplier evaluation criteria after audits shows continuous improvement.
Cost-benefit ratio
The audit costs per supplier and the resulting quality improvements are important efficiency KPIs. The reduction in quality problems following audits justifies the investment.
Risks, dependencies and countermeasures
When conducting quality audits, there are various risks that can be minimized by taking appropriate measures.
Subjectivity and valuation differences
Different auditors may arrive at different assessments. Standardized assessment criteria and regular auditor training reduce this subjectivity and ensure consistent results.
- Uniform audit standards and checklists
- Calibration of auditors through training
- Four-eyes principle for critical evaluations
Incomplete information
Suppliers may withhold relevant information or present embellished accounts. Thorough preparation and spot checks in critical areas increase the informative value of the audits.
Resource expenditure and costs
Quality audits require considerable human and financial resources. A risk-oriented selection of suppliers to be audited and integration into risk management optimize the cost-benefit ratio.
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Practical example
An automotive supplier conducts annual quality audits of its strategic suppliers. The audit of an electronics supplier revealed weaknesses in the calibration management of test equipment. Targeted improvement measures reduced the reject rate by 40% and strengthened the supplier relationship in the long term.
- Systematic on-site evaluation of quality processes
- Identification of concrete potential for improvement
- Joint development of action plans
- Regular follow-up of implementation
Current developments and effects
Quality audits are constantly evolving and are shaped by new technologies and changing market requirements.
Digitization of audit processes
Modern audit software and digital checklists are revolutionizing the way quality audits are carried out. Mobile applications enable real-time documentation and significantly improve the efficiency of audit processes.
- Automated report generation and data analysis
- Cloud-based audit management systems
- Integration into existing ERP systems
AI-supported audit analyses
Artificial intelligence is increasingly supporting the evaluation of audit data and identifying patterns in supplier performance. Predictive analytics enable the early detection of quality risks.
Remote audits and virtual assessments
The development towards remote audits expands the possibilities for supplier qualification. Virtual tours and online interviews reduce costs and enable more frequent inspections.
Conclusion
Quality audits are indispensable tools for professional supplier management. They create transparency about the actual quality capability of partners and form the basis for well-founded procurement decisions. Through systematic assessments and continuous improvements, they make a significant contribution to risk minimization and quality assurance in the supply chain. Digitalization opens up new possibilities for more efficient and meaningful audit processes.
FAQ
What distinguishes quality audits from other supplier assessments?
Quality audits are in-depth, process-oriented assessments that go beyond pure key figure analyses. They assess quality capability through on-site inspections and systematic process analyses, while other assessments often only measure results.
How often should quality audits be carried out?
The audit frequency depends on the supplier category and the risk profile. Strategic A suppliers are typically audited annually, while less critical suppliers are audited every two to three years. Occasional audits are carried out in the event of quality problems or process changes.
What qualifications do auditors need?
Qualified auditors have in-depth knowledge of quality management, industry experience and audit methodology. ISO 19011 certification or industry-specific qualifications are recommended. Communication skills and objective assessment skills are essential.
How are audit results integrated into supplier decisions?
Audit results flow directly into supplier evaluation and development. They influence award decisions, contract conditions and development measures. Serious audit findings can lead to the supplier being blocked or changed, while positive results strengthen the partnership.
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