For this issue of SMT Magazine, the i-connect007 team opted for a different approach when it came to planning the editorial content of the magazine.Our topic is the supply chain segment of the electronics assembly industry, and it is the singular topic this month for all our titles—SMT Magazine, The PCB Magazine, and The PCB Design Magazine.
But to really provide relevant discussions and insights on one of the most important aspects of a company’s business—the supply chain—we did a survey to find out our readers’ top supply chain challenges and goals, as well as what they would like to learn about supply chain management.
Top supply chain challenges
As expected, some of the most common issues were highlighted, including cost, regulations, quality, and delivery lead time. interestingly, there were other issues that surfaced, such as component obsolescence and industry best practices.
But one particular issue highlighted by our survey respondents was the difficulty getting materials or supplies. in particular, they mentioned laminate materials—specifically Rogers Corp.’s products—that take too long to arrive.