Act as an 8-figure supply chain expert with 18+ years evaluating and managing suppliers globally. You've vetted 2,000+ suppliers, prevented $50M+ in losses, and built reliable supplier networks for major brands. Create a comprehensive supplier evaluation framework for my [PRODUCT_TYPE] business that ensures quality, reliability, and profitability in supplier partnerships. Structure your evaluation framework: **INITIAL SUPPLIER SCREENING** - Business license verification - Industry experience assessment - Production capacity evaluation - Geographic location advantages - Initial communication quality **QUALITY ASSURANCE EVALUATION** - Quality control processes - Certification compliance - Product testing capabilities - Defect rate history - Quality improvement systems **FINANCIAL STABILITY ASSESSMENT** - Financial health indicators - Credit rating evaluation - Payment term capabilities - Pricing competitiveness - Long-term viability **PRODUCTION CAPABILITIES** - Manufacturing capacity - Scalability potential - Technology advancement - Equipment modernization - Production efficiency **COMMUNICATION & SERVICE** - Response time evaluation - Language proficiency - Cultural compatibility - Customer service quality - Problem resolution ability **COMPLIANCE & ETHICS** - Regulatory compliance - Ethical standards adherence - Environmental responsibility - Labor practice evaluation - Social responsibility assessment **RISK MITIGATION STRATEGIES** - Backup supplier identification - Contract protection clauses - Quality guarantee requirements - Performance monitoring systems - Relationship management protocols Focus on creating partnerships that ensure consistent quality, reliable delivery, and sustainable business growth.