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Calibration Vendor Scorecard Worksheet

Choosing a calibration lab affects the validity of every measurement it supports. This scorecard gives you a consistent way to compare labs and to document why a supplier was approved.

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Calibration lab	Accreditation (ISO/IEC 17025)	Scope covers our gages	Uncertainty vs need	Turnaround	Cost	Weighted score
						4.15
						3.9
						3.25
						2.85

Best score

4.15

Average score

3.5375

Weights used: accreditation 30%, scope 25%, uncertainty 20%, turnaround 15%, cost 10%. Edit the weights in the exported Excel file to reflect your priorities. Scores are judgments, not measurements, so record the evidence behind each in your supplier file.

Link supplier scorecards to ERP data

Optional review of how to tie calibration vendor performance to PO and receiving history.

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How to score a lab

Rate each lab from 1 to 5 on five criteria. Accreditation checks for ISO/IEC 17025 from a recognized body with a scope that lists your parameters. Scope asks whether the lab actually calibrates your gage types and ranges. Uncertainty compares its stated measurement uncertainty to what you need. Turnaround and cost complete the picture. The weighted total ranks the options.

Request the lab's scope of accreditation and read it, not just the logo
Check that the calibrated range and uncertainty appear on the scope
Ask for sample certificates showing as-found and as-left data

Why accreditation is weighted highest

An accredited lab has had its competence, traceability and uncertainty claims assessed. Many customer and quality requirements, including those in aerospace and defense, expect calibration by accredited or otherwise approved sources. Accreditation is not a guarantee for every item, so scope fit and uncertainty carry strong weights too. Cost is weighted lowest because a cheap wrong calibration is expensive later.

Keeping the evaluation current

Re-score vendors on a regular cycle, such as annually, and after any problem like a late return, a damaged gage or a certificate error. Keep the scorecard with your approved supplier list. If you calibrate in-house, a similar review of the internal lab's procedures, standards and technician competence supports the same objective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all labs need ISO 17025 accreditation?

Not always. Requirements depend on your quality system and customers. Many organizations require accredited calibration for critical equipment and accept other evaluated sources for lower-risk items. Define the rule in your procedure.

How do I compare uncertainty?

Compare the lab's stated expanded uncertainty for your parameter to the tolerance of the gage being calibrated. A common guideline is a test accuracy ratio of 4 to 1 or better, which is covered by separate TAR tools.

Can I change the weights?

Yes. Export to Excel and edit the formula. Keep the weights summing to 100 percent so scores stay comparable on the 1 to 5 scale.

What records should I keep?

Keep the completed scorecard, the lab's accreditation certificate and scope, sample calibration certificates and notes on any issues. These support supplier approval audits.

Netray can help reconcile calibration vendor performance against purchase and receiving data in your ERP, with data kept on your own infrastructure.

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