What kinds of sourcing services does First Index offer buyers?

• First Index offers buyers a range of service choices designed to fit their specific sourcing needs, ranging from the newly enhanced FI Source^TM service used by thousands of buyers across the United States and Canada, to our fast-growing Global Sourcing Solution - FI Source^TM Global.   All of First Index’s services provide you with the three key elements necessary for effective results – a robust online sourcing platform, live support from a team of knowledgeable professionals, and most important of all, an unrivalled network of world-class suppliers ready to respond with a selection of competitive bids.
• First Index created the first version of FI Source^TM over 13 years ago, and since that time it has grown to become the world’s most trusted sourcing service and online marketplace for custom-manufactured parts.   Over 30,000 buyers have come to rely on FI Source^TM to quickly identify quality US and Canadian suppliers for their manufacturing requirements.  FI Source features a new, dramatically enhanced online sourcing platform with an improved user interface, enhanced speed and stability, and a range of new online tools to streamline the collaborative process surrounding RFQs for custom-made parts.
• FI Source^TM is a domestic search for US and Canadian Suppliers only and is completely free of charge for buyers, because suppliers pay a flat annual fee to be part of the network.    There are no hidden fees or commissions, and buyers are free to work directly with suppliers online and off as they build the direct relationships essential when sourcing complex, custom-made components.
• FI Source^TM Global is First Index’s Global Strategic Sourcing Solution for buyers at medium and large companies who are focusing a portion of their spend on Low-Cost-Country (LCC) sourcing, and need to supplement their standard FI Source^TM service with a range of value-added services, including access to First Index’s Global Supplier Network, customized online functionality and SRM capabilities, and Strategic Sourcing Advisory Services.

How does FI Source^TM work?

• Buyers log in to their secure online account and follow easy-to-use templates to create and distribute their RFQs.   The platform contains a powerful search engine that automatically selects suppliers whose capabilities are a match for that particular RFQ.   Supplier bids are submitted online and compiled on detailed quote analysis sheets.   Buyers use built-in collaboration tools to communicate with suppliers and provide them with feedback during and after the quoting process.   A First Index sourcing specialist assigned to each buyer’s account is there to answer any questions or help with any aspect of the process.

How does FI Source^TM Global work?

• FI Source^TM Global allows manufacturers who are focusing on global strategic sourcing to leverage the full resources of First Index’s 100+ worldwide employees, based in our offices in the US, Mexico, Hungary, India, and China.   First Index helps these strategic buyers identify low cost suppliers, domestically and internationally, for all types of manufactured parts.  We help companies respond faster to competitive pressure by providing comprehensive, turn-key services and solutions that help locate, select, and award contracts to qualified suppliers throughout the world.

How many quotes should I expect?

• Unlike other online platforms, First Index carefully controls the number of suppliers who receive each RFQ to ensure that you get a manageable response.  On average buyers receive between three and six quotes.

Am I obligated to use the suppliers who quote?

• Of course not, but we do ask that you respond with appropriate feedback and communications to suppliers who have taken the time to quote your RFQs, and inform when you have completed your RFQ.   We provide tools to help streamline the process of communicating with suppliers during the bidding and negotiation process.

Is FI Source^TM an auction platform?

• First Index does not run online auctions.   We have found that for custom-made parts, the process of building relationships with suppliers is best facilitated via the RFQ process.   This allows buyers time to follow up with the most competitive suppliers to carefully evaluate their capabilities and ensure that they have the potential to deliver ongoing value and sustained cost reduction.

How do I get started using FI Source^TM?

• Using FI Source^TM is easy.  To get started, simply register to set up your login and password, and begin posting RFQs today.   Or, for more information, contact support@firstindex.com or call 888 535 8583 (ext. 133).

How do I get started using FI Source^TM Global?

• For more information about FI Source^TM Global, please contact us at info@FirstIndex.com or call 800 498 7333 x604, (from outside the US at 973 887 9797 x604.)