Just as it had been for material suppliers, quality was considered by respondents to be
the primary criterion for service suppliers. However, unlike the material suppliers,
knowledge along with delivery precision was also included as primary criterion. Also in
accordance with the material suppliers, total cost was considered to be the second criteria
but it was pointed out that the price for services outside the framework agreement is also
important to consider when evaluating a relationship with this kind of supplier. Third,
the core values of the suppliers were discussed along with those of Skanska, which are
that the people involved with the company shall be approachable, honest and responsive.
The core values also include trust in the relationship as an important prerequisite, and
one of the respondents stated: “You (the contractor and supplier) need to trust each other,
of course you can do random controls, but you cannot control everything”. As a fourth
criterion, willingness for collaboration was discussed. The respondents expressed a
willingness to have a dialog concerning development initiatives as well as the will to
invest in development if necessary. Lastly, the firm characteristics emerged as an
important area of concern. Included in this, respondents mentioned the wide
geographical coverage of the firm as compared to the services suppliers who often
operate in a local market only. Also the product portfolio was mentioned as an essential
criterion to consider as well as the financial situation of the supplier.