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Introduction
Brands rely on vendors for everything from signage to print and local fulfillment. But without structure, managing supplier timelines, quality and accountability becomes a daily challenge.
Most tools labeled supplier relationship management (SRM) are designed for procurement—not campaign execution. What marketing and operations teams need is a supplier relationship management tool that simplifies coordination and closes the gap between planning and delivery.
This blog explores how GearBox® by IRIS Strategic Marketing Support (IRIS) helps brands manage vendor communication, asset routing and fulfillment—across every campaign.
The Problem: Vendor Coordination Is Still Too Manual
1. Campaign Launch Depends on the Vendor
If print or signage orders get delayed or miscommunicated, the whole campaign stalls—no matter how well it’s planned.
2. Teams Rely on Email to Track Orders
Most brands still manage vendor communication through email and spreadsheets. There's no central visibility, no timelines, and no accountability.
3. No Reporting or Audit Trail
It’s hard to know what was sent, when it shipped, or if a store ever received the correct asset—especially across regions or partners.
What a Supplier Relationship Management Tool Should Do
Automate Routing of Campaign Materials to Vendors
Once a campaign launches, vendor partners should automatically receive what they need—with specs, delivery instructions and timelines.
Track Orders by Store, Region or Vendor
No more guessing. Teams should see fulfillment status for each order in one dashboard.
Centralize Communication and Status Updates
Vendors should upload proofs, track delivery and mark orders complete—all from the same place your team is managing the campaign.
Store a History of Vendor Activity and Performance
View who fulfilled which campaign, what the turnaround time was, and how often rework was needed.
How GearBox® by IRIS Functions as a Supplier Relationship Management Tool
Print and Signage Vendor Integration
GearBox® routes approved assets and specs directly to assigned vendors, based on geography or store profile.
Fulfillment Workflows Built Into Campaign Launch
Campaign kits include signage, menus, flyers and more—with vendor routing built in from the start.
Order Status and Vendor Communication in One Place
Track fulfillment across vendors and stores, confirm delivery status and reduce back-and-forth.
Role-Based Access for Vendors
Vendors see only what they need—files, deadlines, store addresses and order history.
Use Case: IRIS Helps Restaurant Chains Simplify Vendor Coordination
One national restaurant brand needed to ensure signage and menus arrived on time for every limited-time offer. Campaigns were consistent, but vendor follow-up took hours each week.
With GearBox®, IRIS helped them:
- Build vendor routing into campaign kits
- Track delivery and status by store
- Centralize vendor communication
- Reduce missed shipments and last-minute reprints
See how Applebee’s scaled consistent signage execution
Conclusion
A true supplier relationship management tool should help brands manage fulfillment—not just supplier records. Whether you're printing window clings, coordinating gift cards or routing promo signage, execution is only as strong as your vendor coordination.
GearBox® by IRIS gives brand teams the tools to plan, launch and fulfill campaigns with vendor support that’s automated, accountable and built into the system.
Talk to IRIS to see how supplier workflows can be streamlined inside your campaign platform.
