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How much is obsolescence costing your business?

Homeland January 30, 2020

Oliver Organ from Allan Webb Ltd. looks at how businesses can manage the risk of obsolescence and prevent it negatively affecting their organisation.

Obsolescence is a significant cost driver and can impact products and equipment at all stages of the lifecycle. With systems expected to last longer in service, and the lifespan of electronic components shortening, it is becoming more difficult to support equipment and not experience unexpected costs or downtime due to the unavailability of components.

Although electronics are most likely to be discontinued, obsolescence management of non-electronic and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) items also poses a significant problem in maintaining the availability of long-life systems.

Early identification of obsolescence risk allows a wider range of options to be considered and consequently reduces the actual cost of resolution. Our obsolescence monitoring and whole project risk management services provide the foresight to manage the risks to item availability and make informed decisions on how best to mitigate or resolve them.

In order to effectively manage the risk of obsolescence to your project and organisation, effective and suitable governance must be in place. We can provide briefings and training at all organisational levels so that key stakeholders are aware of and understand the goals and impacts of the obsolescence management policy. This is supported by the development of the associated documentation to support an organisation or specific project including the Obsolescence Management Policy, Obsolescence Management Plans and Obsolescence Management Strategy.

There is clear evidence that a robust Obsolescence Management capability can significantly reduce the obsolescence impact on through-life costs, which is why we have recently launched a portfolio of Supportability and Obsolescence Training Courses.

With a recognised track record cross-sector, we provide open learning environments for the sharing of experience and cross-pollination of ideas and best practice. From bespoke training design and delivery through to our catalogue of Supportability and Obsolescence Courses our training capability offers something for everyone.

Our team of specialists are not only versed in their own fields of expertise but have a wealth of experience in the design; development and delivery of training recognised and proven cross-industry.

Our courses provide not only upskilling and knowledge, but also an opportunity to engage in a collaborative cross-sector learning environment. Our courses use a balanced approach to learning from theoretical teaching to practical workshops to provide scenarios to apply your learning in a realistic environment. If you wish to find out more about how we can support you in Obsolescence Management, please visit our website www.allanwebb.co.uk/services/obsolescence-management/.

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Business COTS Development obsolescence Obsolescence Management strategy Through-Life Support

Post written by: Vicky Maggiani

Vicky has worked in media for over 20 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.