You may have seen in the news that there is a shortage of semiconductors (chips that power massive data-centres and digital devices) which is affecting a large number of technologies worldwide.

Production of ICT equipment has been impacted due to multiple component shortages, global silica shortages used in the production of chips and LCD panels, along with droughts in the countries where the chips are manufactured, as water is a critical resource in the chip manufacturing process.

This has affected stocks in the distribution channel and product lead times are greater than normal as the market continually adapts and changes.  Suppliers on our ICT Hardware and Peripherals Equipment framework are therefore working closely with their partners in order to minimise disruption to CPC members, however some disruption is unfortunately inevitable. Regular stock availability updates are available to view on the ICT Hardware and Peripherals Equipment framework web page.

We recommend being flexible on product specifications wherever possible and advise engaging with framework suppliers prior to requesting a quote to ensure the best possible outcome is achieved.

You can call-off from the ICT Hardware and Peripherals framework via direct award, direct award using a desktop calculator and our recommended route which is further competition. There is also a further competition calculator which can help speed up the procurement process by enabling you to gain pricing for your requirement and within a few clicks have a completed evaluation. See the framework user guide on the ICT Hardware and Peripherals Equipment framework page for full details.

The shortage of semiconductors will also impact other CPC frameworks including but not limited to our Audio-Visual Equipment and Installation Services framework and our new ICT Networking and Storage Solutions agreement which launched in May.

New supplier pre-engagement template

The new ICT Networking and Storage Solutions framework has a new template available within the user guide which you can use to help engage with the framework suppliers prior to issuing your requirements. This template will be rolled out across other relevant frameworks.

Should you require any further details or guidance, please contact the Category Manager Jane Edwards at [email protected].