Before choosing a Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) solution, define your internal supply chain strategy. Do you primarily need to stay compliant, or are you actively working to improve supplier performance across tiers? Your strategy determines which software features will deliver the most value.
Start by understanding your supply chain approach
Questions that should be discussed:
- Are we focused on legal compliance or long-term risk management?
- Do we have clear oversight of our suppliers today?
- Do we engage directly with suppliers—or simply collect documentation?
- Will we need audit-ready reports or continuous supplier follow-up?
These answers will help the team to avoid tools that are either too light, or too complex, for your actual needs.
A compliance-first strategy to cover obligations and reduce exposure
Some companies take a focused, compliance-driven approach. The priority is meeting requirements under laws like the Transparency Act (åpenhetsloven), CSDDD, or upcoming procurement regulations.
Look for software that includes:
- Built-in legislation templates
- Supplier self-assessments with automated risk scoring
- Tier 1 mapping tools
- Audit-ready reports and documentation exports
- Customisable risk filters (e.g., country, product, spend)
→ Factlines SRM software is designed to simplify compliance, with built-in logic for due diligence, reporting, and documentation.
An engagement-driven strategy to build resilience and strengthen performance
Others take a more active approach, seeing the supply chain not only as a risk, but as an opportunity. These companies engage suppliers regularly, share knowledge, and track improvements.
Choose software that enables:
- Two-way collaboration with suppliers
- Chain Survey: collect insights across multiple tiers
- Custom SAQs based on business goals
- Commenting, reminders, and AI-generated summaries
- Built-in action plans and improvement tracking
→ Factlines SRM software combines mapping, engagement, and supplier documentation into one platform, helping you make decisions based on facts rather than assumptions.
Choose software that matches your actual strategy
Whether you are focusing on regulatory compliance or being proactive with supplier follow-ups, having the right SRM software will evolve to meet your needs. Begin with a small step or dive deeply, but ensure the tool can handle your team's upcoming actions.
Factlines helps you manage risk, improve supplier relationships, and simplify reporting, without spreadsheets or consultants. Book a demo or request a free trial today.
