IT Asset Disposition Helps Companies Improve Sustainability

As employers continue to explore workplace models that support a variety of employee needs and preferences, some find themselves with hardware that is sitting around and collecting dust, such as computers, servers, mobile or desk phones, monitors, conferencing systems, keyboards and more.

But unlike other waste, you should not dispose of electronics in the same manner as regular trash, especially if the device is still functional or could possibly be refurbished. In most regions, electronics are considered hazardous waste and companies can face environmental and cybersecurity fines for improper disposal.

If you do dispose of electronics without proper protocol, your company may face some hefty fines. For example, in 2022, TJX (the company that operates T. J. Maxx, Marshalls and HomeGoods) was ordered to pay over $2 million for the unlawful disposal of hazardous waste in California.

Disposal can become a challenge for organizations that are downsizing offices, refreshing their technology, have broken devices, or simply need to quickly get rid of electronics they no longer need. Having an IT asset disposition (ITAD) plan can help companies manage IT equipment properly through its entire lifecycle. 

Proper ITAD involves, but is not limited to, completely wiping devices of sensitive data and environmentally responsible recycling and disposal of e-waste. ITAD shields your business from the financial, legal and environmental risks associated with the retirement and disposal of electronics.

As part of ITAD, a device’s functionality can be tested and it can possibly be repaired for further use, or for resell. Sometimes warranty support may be available to extend the life of a device instead of retiring it sooner than needed.

While some organizations may be able to establish an internal process for handling the end of a device’s lifecycle, many companies do not have the resources or space for this step. ITAD services are helpful for organizations that do not have the physical space to store old equipment or have the expertise to figure out what to do next. 

Rather than burdening internal IT teams with the responsibility of handling every device-related issue, businesses can leverage external ITAD services to offload these tasks to industry experts who specialize in device management.

These services provide access to a pool of experts with in-depth knowledge of various devices, ensuring that technical issues are addressed promptly and effectively, minimizing device downtime, and enabling businesses to maintain seamless operations.

Another benefit of outsourcing ITAD is that organizations no longer need to find physical space to store their outdated or broken equipment. An ITAD partner can collect all the electronics and store them in a warehouse while processing each item. This is extremely beneficial if your company is streamlining processes, downsizing and needs to make room as fast as possible, or acquiring another company and will have a hodgepodge of equipment to manage. 

If a device needs to be retired and disposed of, an ITAD partner can provide certified data erasure services that meet compliance standards. Ensuring sensitive information and software is erased is a key step to proper ITAD.

Additionally, ITAD services are a scalable solution, accommodating the evolving needs of businesses as they grow. The ability to track and manage device assets, coupled with the option for customized solutions, makes depot services an invaluable resource for organizations aiming to optimize their endpoint device management while focusing on core business activities.

Finding a trusted partner with ITAD can help your business ensure that your endpoint devices remain in a secure location, reduce downtime, and establish a seamless workflow that is more efficient than having an overflow of equipment take up space in an office or storage space.

A partner like CDW can take on the tedious tasks of shipping, tracking, storing, redeploying and disposing of electronics. Your company can even receive buyback credits in your CDW account for any devices of value. This can provide some financial relief as your organization navigates implementing a new solution for outdated technology.

Learn more about how you can complete the IT lifecycle with CDW and improve sustainability, increase efficiency and rein in costs associated with ITAD.