During our recent IT trends webinar, an attendee asked a question that comes up often, how should public sector organizations think about supply chain risk as they plan their technology purchases for 2026? It is an important question, especially given the disruptions many organizations experienced during COVID and the pricing fluctuations that followed. 

Although we are not in a period of severe global disruption, supply chain risk has not disappeared in the IT equipment, or for other commodities. Equipment models change, availability can tighten, and certain components may experience delays without much notice. The best way to manage this is through planning, communication, and strong supplier partnerships. 

At SCW, we work closely with our customers IT teams and their end users to understand their needs and timelines well in advance. When customers share what they expect to purchase and when they expect to purchase it, we can anticipate demand, evaluate availability, and position the right inventory or alternatives ahead of time. The earlier we know about projects, the more effectively we can help prevent bottlenecks and identify cost saving options. 

Setting realistic expectations is also part of mitigating risk. Even in stable conditions, some product families move faster than others or may be subject to periodic lead time changes. By discussing these variables up front, we can help customers avoid surprises and adjust procurement paths when needed. Our long-standing relationships with manufacturers and distributors also allow us to escalate issues quickly when timing becomes critical. 

The key message is that supply chain risk is manageable when customers and suppliers work as partners rather than as separate steps in a transaction. Sharing goals, discussing upcoming refresh cycles, involving your trusted supplier account managers early, and exploring equivalent products create the strongest buffer against delays.  

As we move into 2026, the organizations that plan and maintain open communication with their suppliers will be the ones best positioned to navigate market changes with confidence. If you would like support planning for upcoming needs or reviewing availability for 2026 projects, our team is always ready to assist.