# 3 Guidelines for Using Reference Points Manufacturer and supplier prepare up front for items to be addressed at a reference point Check and evaluate the input (if not done previously; adopt if possible). Generate the output or associated agreements (for example, update a to-do list or initiate an instruction). The output can refer both to activities/tasks already planned or to activities/tasks that are newly introduced. Agree on steps to be taken in case of deviation from the plan The manufacturer and supplier consolidate information (from various functional areas) relating to the reference points.