60-Second Guide · 05

Can Supplier Testing Be Used?

Use supplier testing without assuming it covers the customer configuration, process, data, interfaces, and intended use.

Author
Sandip Thorat
Published
12 September 2026
Last reviewed
12 September 2026
Duration
About 1 minute
Content type
Video learning
Topics
Supplier assessment · Existing evidence · Local testing

Transcript

Supplier evidence can add value

Supplier testing can support a C S A strategy when it is relevant, credible, and current. Review what version, function, configuration, environment, data, and acceptance criteria were covered. A summary stating that thousands of tests passed is weak evidence unless you can connect it to the customer’s validation question.

Identify what the supplier did not test

Supplier regression may support unchanged standard functionality, but it may not cover local routing rules, identity mappings, interfaces, migrated records, custom reports, or the customer’s operating procedure. Security certifications describe management controls; they do not prove that a configured GxP workflow is fit for use.

Leverage, supplement, or reject

Record which supplier evidence is accepted, its limitations, and the additional customer evidence needed. Use targeted local tests for material gaps. If the supplier evidence cannot be reviewed or trusted, do not pretend it reduces uncertainty. Evidence leverage is a reasoned decision, not an automatic waiver of testing.