The Half-Million Dollar Save: Strategic Sourcing in a Volatile Market

Most campus tech upgrades are about to get a lot more expensive—and that's not all. Jen Parker reveals how supply chain chaos, chip shortages, and market disruptions are causing steep price hikes for university-provided computers, with increases of up to 60%. But amidst the chaos, clever pre-buy strategies and strategic vendor partnerships are helping Notre Dame save nearly half a million dollars—proving there's always a way to navigate the storm.In this episode, you'll discover how global market shifts are impacting hardware costs and supply timelines, and why Dell's inventory advantages matter more than ever. Jen shares behind-the-scenes insights on vendor negotiations, pre-buy tactics, and how Notre Dame is locking in pricing to stabilize future budgets. From the impact of AI data center demands to the ripple effects of chip shortages, you'll learn what drives these price changes and how to stay ahead.About this podcast:Behind the Screens: IT@ND is a podcast based out of the University of Notre Dame, where hosts Scott Russell (IT Director for the College of Arts & Letters) and Diana Garcia (IT Support Technician: Service Desk) give you a behind-the-scenes look at what IT consultancy is all about. Whether you're deep in the IT world or just curious about how technology powers a university, this podcast is for you.Each episode gives insight into Information Technology at Notre Dame — with focus on how IT consultants support the University, breaking down the challenges they face and the innovative solutions they create. From interviews with experts driving key campus projects to practical tips for making the most of your tech, this podcast explains how IT teams work behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly across campus.With this podcast, not only will you learn how technology professionals at Notre Dame help shape and support the future of the University, but you'll also get helpful insights and strategies to help you stay ahead.