Real-Time Updates and Information Resource On Supply Chain Impact of the Japanese Emergency

Following the recent terrible events in Japan, and the uncertain impact on the electronics supply chain, element14 has created a dedicated online space at www.element14.com/japanemergency. By creating this area of the community, element14 hopes that it will fulfill a clear need by acting as a central repository for the whole electronics industry on the Japanese situation, while additionally being a conduit for information flow at this difficult time. Suppliers are posting the latest updates on the anticipated impact of the disaster by product family and device type, including likely changes to lead-times. There are also discussion threads building on the community's many forums as customers ask questions, and seek answers from suppliers and other industry representatives, in this dynamic and rapidly changing situation.

"Naturally, our suppliers' immediate concerns are for their people and families while they assess damage to their facilities. Power outages, disruption to road, sea and air transportation and communications are all adding to the confusion and our thoughts and support are very much with those affected at this time," commented Harriet Green, CEO of Premier Farnell, the organization which provides the element14 community. "We have had many requests from customers already for information; online, interactive forums such as ours really come into their own at a time like this to provide relevant, timely updates, easily accessible from anywhere."