What is Root Cause?
Root Cause is a feature that requires suppliers to provide a reason when making changes to purchase orders. These reasons help buyers understand and respond to supplier updates more effectively.
How Root Cause works
- Supplier receives a PO
- Supplier proposes changes
- Supplier selects a Root Cause when applicable
- Root Cause is visible to buyers in SourceDay
Enable Root Cause
Admins enable root cause for their company under Account Settings.
- Account Settings
- Root Cause on the left panel
- Click on the grey button to enable Root Causes (will turn blue when enabled)
Optional: Required Root Cause Response will require suppliers select a code with every proposed change
Once enabled adjust the list by disabling specific responses, adding unique options or customizing the code.
Customizing Root Cause options
Admins can use the default list as is or add custom reasons suppliers can select when responding to POs.
Add Custom Reason
- Click on the blue button Add Custom Reason
- Enter the code and reason
- Click the check mark to add the custom reason to the list
Edit Root Cause Code
Simply click on the existing code to open a text box. Enter your new code there.
Best practices for configuration:
- Keep the list clear and concise
- Use standardized categories (e.g., Material, Capacity, Pricing, Logistics)
- Avoid overly specific or redundant options
- Align categories with how your team analyzes supplier performance
Supplier Expectations
To get the most value from Root Cause:
- Communicate to suppliers if selecting a reason is required
- Encourage accurate and consistent selection
- Reinforce usage during onboarding
Reporting & Usage
Root Cause data can be used to:
- Identify recurring supplier issues
- Track causes of delays or cancellations
- Support supplier performance discussions
Maintenance Tips
- Periodically review your Root Cause list
- Update categories as business needs evolve
- Remove unused or unclear options
Summary
- Buyers use Root Cause to make decisions
- Admins control how Root Cause is structured and used
- Clean configuration = better data and better outcomes