The Fachverband Elektronikdesign und -fertigung (FED) and the Component Obsolescence Group Deutschland (COGD) signed a cooperation agreement at 'electronica 2022'. They intend to work closely together on the topic of obsolescence in the future.
Founded 17 years ago, the COGD is a non-profit industry association with over 160 members that deals with the causes and consequences of product changes and discontinuations and their impact on supply capability. The cooperation between the FED and the COGD involves joint activities on the topic of obsolescence of electronic products: coordinated representation of interests vis-à-vis political decision-makers, as well as networking in research and development, training and lectures to demonstrate the benefits of strategic and proactive obsolescence management and to raise awareness of the topic among affected companies and their employees.
Dieter Müller, Chairman of the FED Board of Directors, had clear words: "The current situation and the last two years have shown how dramatically the unavailability of components affects our industry. Without appropriate obsolescence management, this can massively jeopardize companies' ability to deliver." Dr. Wolfgang Heinbach, Honorary Chairman of the COGD, added: "Efficient, proactive obsolescence management starts at the design stage. If risky components or materials are used at this early stage, the cost of rectifying the problem later on is all the higher."
According to the experts, German companies will have to deal with obsolescence risks and their effects more often and to a greater extent in the future. This applies not only to electronic components, but also to raw materials, materials, semi-finished products and software products. "We have reached a point where obsolescence can also pose a considerable risk to parts of the economy," says Dr. Heinbach.
