The global component shortage that began in 2020 has permanently reshaped the electronics manufacturing landscape. Lead times have stretched, prices have become volatile, and many previously dependable parts are now either obsolete or extremely difficult to source.
For OEMs and product developers, this isn’t just a sourcing challenge—it’s a strategic risk. And that risk makes who you choose to build your electronics more important than ever.
At Poly Electronics, we’ve made major shifts to ensure we can continue delivering consistent, reliable results to our customers. Based on that experience, here are five things you should be looking for when evaluating an electronics manufacturing partner in today’s volatile supply chain environment.
1. Do They Have a Strategy for Obsolete or Hard-to-Find Parts?
Component substitution is no longer an occasional issue—it’s a routine part of production. Your contract manufacturer should:
If your CM doesn’t have a structured process for this, you may be left scrambling at the worst possible time.
At Poly, we perform detailed BOM risk reviews up front, and our engineering team is equipped to support substitutions with minimal impact to your schedule.
2. Do They Maintain Inventory or Have Access to Reliable Suppliers?
The “just-in-time” inventory model has proven unreliable in the face of global shortages. Your electronics partner should be able to:
If their answer is “we’ll order the parts when you send a PO,” that could signal future delays or inflated costs.
Poly Electronics actively helps customers plan for inventory and can support stocking strategies when appropriate.
3. How Well Do They Understand Supply Chain Volatility?
A good manufacturer doesn’t just build your product—they help you plan for success. Look for a CM that:
At Poly, we stay closely aligned with our customers’ purchasing and planning teams to ensure supply risk is addressed early.
4. Can They Adapt Quickly When Circumstances Change?
When supply issues hit, speed matters. Your CM should be built for flexibility, with:
Our team is built to respond rapidly to change—because delays cost money, time, and credibility.
5. Are They Transparent and Collaborative?
In unpredictable supply chain environments, transparency and trust are essential. You want a partner who:
At Poly Electronics, we believe that the more we collaborate with our customers, the better the outcome. We keep you in the loop, not in the dark.
Choosing the Right Partner Today Means Looking Beyond Price
Low-cost suppliers often don’t have the flexibility, technical expertise, or supply chain resilience to navigate today’s market. When selecting a manufacturing partner, you should be asking:
Poly Electronics is built to help our customers succeed through uncertainty. We’re agile, transparent, and committed to delivering quality—even when the market is working against us.
Let’s Talk
If you’re rethinking your current electronics supplier—or starting a new product—you deserve a partner who’s built for the realities of today’s supply chain. Let’s have a conversation about how we can help.
