Blog Navigating the Global Memory and RAM Shortage: Risk, ROI, and the Future of IT Procurement

How long and disruptive will the memory shortage be?

The current memory shortage extends far beyond short‑term supply chain disruptions. A major driver is global investment in AI data centers, which are consuming massive volumes of RAM, storage, CPUs, and chipsets — the very same components required to manufacture enterprise devices.

As supply tightens, hardware manufacturers are paying more to secure parts, and those increases are being passed directly to customers through higher device prices.

“These AI data centers are consuming all of the available capacity for manufacturers — RAM, storage, CPUs — and that cost is being passed all the way down to customers.”
— Ian Murray, Director, Device Lifecycle Strategy, Insight

Originally expected to ease sooner, analyst forecasts now show memory constraints lasting years longer than anticipated. This makes the shortage a long‑term planning factor, not something organizations can simply wait out.

Which devices are most affected, and why should organizations care?

The impact of the memory shortage is widespread, touching nearly every device category. Laptops, desktops, mobile phones, and even storage media all rely on constrained components. Within the enterprise, premium and high‑performance devices are feeling the impact first, with sharper price increases and longer lead times.

Legacy device environments are especially vulnerable. Custom hardware builds and single‑OEM dependency limit flexibility when availability tightens. Organizations with modern, standardized environments have far more options to adapt.

“If your device has a CPU, some form of memory, or storage in it, it’s going to be impacted — both from a supply chain and a pricing standpoint.”
— Ian Murray

This matters because device availability directly affects productivity, employee experience, and security — not just procurement budgets.

What is the smartest investment strategy when budgets are tight?

In uncertain markets, overreaction can be just as damaging as inaction. Panic buying and blanket spending freezes are both losing strategies. Instead, organizations need a deliberate, prioritized approach to device investment.

The smartest organizations are identifying where refreshes are truly necessary — such as devices impacting security, employee experience, or support costs — and where assets can be safely extended.

“The biggest mistake companies can make is either overreacting or freezing — panic buying isn’t a strategy, and neither is doing nothing.”

— Joe Flynn, Director of Services, Insight

Fixed three‑ or five‑year refresh cycles no longer reflect how devices perform in today’s environment. Budget discipline now depends on making informed decisions, not delaying everything.

How does device performance data change refresh decisions?

One of the most important shifts discussed is the move away from age‑based refresh decisions. A device’s calendar age alone is an unreliable indicator of risk or productivity. Performance data tells a far more accurate story.

Digital Employee Experience (DEX) tools give IT teams visibility into health scores, boot times, battery performance, application stability, and memory usage. This data allows organizations to extend healthy devices, prioritize replacements more accurately, and avoid unnecessary spending.

“You can have a five‑year‑old device with a health score of 90 that’s perfectly fine — and a much younger device that’s already creating problems.”
— Joe Flynn

When refresh decisions are driven by real performance data, organizations reduce risk while getting more value from existing assets.

Why has multi-OEM sourcing become foundational?

For years, standardizing on a single OEM delivered predictability and cost control. Today, however, that same approach introduces risk. Supply constraints, uneven pricing increases, and component shortages mean reliance on one vendor can limit options when availability tightens.

Modern device management and zero‑touch provisioning now make it easier to support multiple OEMs without adding complexity. Moving away from heavily customized builds opens the door to greater flexibility and resilience.

“The dependable ways of the past no longer apply — getting away from custom builds and embracing multi‑OEM opens up choice and reduces risk.”
— Ashley Howard, Head of Strategy, GETMod Center of Excellence, Insight

In today’s market, choice isn’t a nice‑to‑have. It’s a risk‑mitigation strategy.

Should organizations invest in AI PCs during the shortage?

AI‑enabled PCs add another layer of complexity during an already constrained period. Today’s benefits are real — including stronger hardware‑level security, better battery efficiency, and improved performance. At the same time, many AI‑optimized applications are still emerging.

The decision to invest now depends on user personas, industry needs, and refresh timing. Some organizations may adopt selectively, while others delay. However, extending refresh cycles too long carries its own risk as AI‑capable devices become the default standard.

“In another year or two, every PC will be AI‑enabled — the question is whether you want to be ready for that or playing catch‑up.”
— Joe Flynn

AI PCs are not a one‑size‑fits‑all mandate, but they are a strategic lifecycle decision that organizations need to plan for now.

The organizations that navigate this shortage best are those that plan proactively. A smarter device strategy today can help you control cost, reduce risk, and stay ready for what’s next. Contact us today to get started.