Supplier Master Data Management (SMDM) is the practice of employing a systematic approach to tracking and managing information about suppliers. It typically involves the collection, consolidation, validation, and maintenance of supplier master data across organizational departments in order to maximize business efficiency, reduce risks associated with supplier management, and improve supplier relationships. SMDM provides visibility of the current supplier base and enables organizations to more effectively monitor changes in supplier information, assess vendors for performance, and alert users to any fluctuations in the composition or state of their supply chain.