ITIL 4 Foundation Practice Exam

Which role does a supplier play in an organization?

1. A stakeholder giving strategic advice

2. A stakeholder that provides services to the organization

3. A team member responsible for internal operations

4. A manager overseeing product development

The correct answer is: A stakeholder that provides services to the organization

A supplier plays a critical role in an organization by providing services that are essential for the organization's processes and operations. In the context of ITIL, suppliers may provide goods, services, or support that contribute to the delivery of a service to customers. This relationship is pivotal because the quality and performance of the offerings from suppliers can significantly affect the effectiveness of the organization's service delivery and overall performance. In organizations that rely on external partners, suppliers can take various forms, such as hardware vendors, software service providers, or logistical support companies. Their contributions are frequently stipulated in formal agreements like Service Level Agreements (SLAs), which define the expected standards of service delivery. By managing their relationships with suppliers effectively, organizations can ensure that they are meeting their customers' needs while also achieving their strategic goals. The other roles listed do not encapsulate the role of a supplier; they describe different responsibilities within an organization that are distinct from those of a supplier. A supplier's function is specifically centered around the provision of services, making answer B the most accurate representation of what a supplier does in an organization.