A global supply issue

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools grow in popularity, the supply of computing components, for example memory and Central Processing Units (CPUs) is being prioritised for this purpose. This is causing a global shortage, affecting all sectors, including higher education.

What this means for the university

This is having a direct impact on the availability, pricing and delivery times of IT equipment, particularly non-standard IT equipment.

Please be aware that:

  • We currently have a good supply of standard laptops in stock at pre-increase prices
  • Most non-standard equipment requests will be impacted by a limited supply of specific components
  • Prices are rising rapidly and can fluctuate significantly; some non-standard devices have seen increases of 100% or more
  • There are significant delays in receiving quotes and a reduced validity period, from 30 days to just 24-48 hours
  • Non-standard equipment is typically taking 12 weeks to deliver, with some suppliers taking longer

What we need from you

If you are unsure whether the equipment you need is standard or non-standard, please refer to the Standard IT Equipment for staff guidance and the IT Equipment Policy.

If you have remaining budget to spend this academic year, it is unlikely that equipment ordered now will arrive before 29 July. We recommend planning for your budget to carry into next financial year instead.

To help us secure the purchase and delivery of your equipment, please:

  1. Allow time for Agresso approvals and workflows.
  2. Ensure your order complies with the University’s Procurement Policy Guide.
  3. Check University spend thresholds. Depending on the value, you may need to provide multiple supplier quotes or procurement justifications.
  4. Be aware that any orders missing documentation may be delayed or returned.
  5. Raise your order as early as possible and include a budget code with any relevant approval attached i.e. an email from your department operations manager.
  6. Be prepared for sudden price increases and budget accordingly.
  7. Respond quickly when quotes are received, as quote validity periods are very short.
  8. Be aware that quotes may come back incomplete during this time.

What DDaT is doing

We're doing everything possible to help source equipment, including exploring alternative equipment where appropriate, prioritising time-critical orders, and acting quickly when we receive quotes.

We are actively monitoring the market, working closely with suppliers, and seeking quotations as early as possible. Despite these efforts, this remains a fast-moving and unpredictable situation, and availability and pricing can change with little notice.

Further information and support

If you have questions about how these challenges may affect your equipment order, please contact the IT Purchasing Team via the Self-Service Portal as early as possible. Contacting us as soon as possible gives the best chance of securing equipment or sourcing alternatives.