Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1475010
AUGUST 2022 I SMT007 MAGAZINE 65 to the U.S. Partnership for Assured Electron- ics (USPAE) has noted, this problem is exacer- bated since "this unregulated market has many non-transparent and unqualified players." Pre- vailing conditions can only cause the rate of counterfeits to increase. Any risks resulting from these and other issues ripple all the way downstream to the end user. When that end user is the warfighter, these concerns become particularly troubling when they cease being a risk and become an actual event. Shrewd Tools to Tame the Risks One answer to all these issues is to build strong relationships with EMS companies. Learn what it means to be a good customer for each to be well-positioned in tough times. Collaborate more closely with suppliers on all things related to supply chains, from demand forecasts to gaining greater visibility into their suppliers. e more open a buyer and supplier are with each other, the less likely those risks will come to fruition. Stronger relationships also open new oppor- tunities to create mutual value. When cou- pling the incredible insights and data that EMS companies have with a customer's view into the future of demand, new possibilities may arise. Whether that be from reducing risks or increasing the success of new product intro- ductions, merging insights that are currently siloed in buyers and suppliers can yield great results. Finally, strengthen EMS selection crite- ria. Look for certifications like IPC-1791 that address issues ranging from counterfeit detection to supply chain risk management. Visit with EMS partners more frequently to establish a stronger dialog while perform- ing spot checks that ensure requirements are being met. Thriving vs. Surviving e defense electronics industry is full of volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambi- guity, which is oen referred to as VUCA. e DoD has significant challenges in providing accurate demand forecasts for reasons ranging from siloed operations to limitations of fund- ing and the federal procurement process. On the supply side, issues from world conflicts to material and capacity shortages make it diffi- cult to meet today's needs, much less the antic- ipated increase in demand. Greater collaboration throughout the sup- ply chain is essential if companies are to suc- ceed in a VUCA environment. As keystones in this process, EMS companies have the data, insights, and connections that can help its trad- ing partners not just survive, but thrive. SMT007 References 1. "The lure of 'earned preferential treatment,'" by Steven A. Melnyk, SupplyChain Management Review, March 1, 2021. Christopher Peters is execu- tive director of the U.S. Partner- ship for Assured Electronics. His work has been documented in several books and publications that include The Wall Street Journal, Businessweek, and Supply Chain Management Review. On the supply side, issues from world conflicts to material and capacity shortages make it difficult to meet today's needs, much less the anticipated increase in demand.