Academia understanding the customer supplier relationship ...

Earlier (this week) I had a very interesting email from a 'supplier' the kind that makes you think if they understand how the relationship with a customer actually works. Copied to their line manager, with a 'I will let you form your own opinion' it was interesting to see how quickly they reacted to their subordinates indiscretion.

Around the same time frame, we get an informed insight from one of our customers into some (sadly repeated) issues with another supplier. It will result in an unannounced visit, when/where to be determined.

So, the moral, if there is one. Over the years I have been left somewhat amused at the way academic establishments operate. We are in 'interesting times', for considerably longer than you have realised. When extra income comes your way, try and keep in mind that we can easily go to others. For the two organisations in question. I have already considered alternates. I keep a map in my office, showing the location of 'academic partners' and often revisit it and consider the value offered in return for our continued custom.




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