A good supplier is one...

 who is at all times honest and fair in his dealing with the customers, his own employees, and himself...

 who has adequate plant facilities, and know-how so as to be able to provide materials which meet the purchasers specifications, in the quantities required, and at the time promised...

 whose financial position is sound...

 whose prices are reasonable both to the buyer and to himself...

 whose management policies are progressive...

 who is alert to the need for continued improvement in both his products and his manufacturing processes...

 and who realizes that, in the last analysis, his own interests are best served when he best serves his customers.

By Professor Wilbur England
Harvard University, 1974