When it comes to lead times, it’s easy for furniture suppliers to give their clients unrelastic expectations in order to secure orders and win projects. The issues then arise when it turns out these lead times cannot be met, and not only does this cause a ripple effect in terms of the project on the ground but it also begins to cause a breakdown in trust between supplier and design company, and eventually the end-user.
Why Predictability Matters
Lead times aren’t just dates on a spreadsheet, they’re the backbone of project planning. When they shift, entire schedules can unravel, leading to costly delays in time and money; this is only further amplified with furniture being just one part of an overall fit-out project. Delays and broken promises can cause trust issues with the end-user, and these trust issues are then passed on to the furniture supplier.
The Benefits of Predictability
When suppliers provide lead times that can genuinely be trusted, it transforms how projects run. For design companies, it means they can plan with confidence, align schedules with contractors, and avoid disruptive last-minute changes. For end-users, it builds reassurance that the project is under control and progressing smoothly. The overall effect is less stress, stronger relationships, and a reputation for reliability that keeps clients coming back.
In Summary
At ORN Furniture, we work hard to give the most accurate lead times possible. We’re always looking at ways to improve how quickly your orders arrive, but we’ll never use unrealistic promises as a sales tactic. Accuracy will always come first when it comes to lead times.
Because predictable lead times aren’t just about moving a project from A to B. They’re about building trust with our clients, keeping projects on track, strengthening relationships, and making sure clients are happy.