Apple looking to emerge from disaster in Japan with minimal imapct

One of the many topics in today's Apple quarterly earnings call was how the disaster in Japan and its aftermath might effect the company.

It seems that Apple's outlook on the situation is very optimistic. The company told reporters and analysts that it does not expect problems with its majufacturing partners in Japan to slow down its operations in the next few months.

According to chief operating officer Tim Cook, Apple's manufacturers have been able to adjust its operations and secure enough hardware to get through any shutdowns with manufacturers in the country.

Reports in the months prior to the disaster did indicate that Apple had been stockpiling hardware. In fact, the company was said to be so intent on acquiring large amounts of components that other vendors have been reported to have delayed their own tablets due to hardware shortages.

Could Apple really be able to avoid a hit on its operations? V3.co.uk spoke with Gartner analyst Van Baker, who noted that in addition to its stockpiles, Apple also has a favourable position with manufacturers. Baker noted that Apple is lilkely at the top of the list for many vendors, and they will be the first to get available supplies of vital components.

Perhaps Apple could see minimal impact from the disaster, at least in the short term.

One thing to note amongst all this business talk, however, is Apple's concern for the humanitarian crisis. While it may sound like the company is only looking at the bottom line, that is not the case. Before even discussing manufacturing and supplies in Japan, Tim Cook took time to express his condolences and best wishes. More importantly, Apple's actions since the disaster hsow that the company is offering its full backing to both employees and partners in the impacted regions.