With no need to get into complex details and just getting right to the point, the definition of IT assets is simply hardware, software and information systems that represent value to organizations. An important issue for all businesses is the management of ITAD (IT Asset Disposition) at the end of their useful life.
It’s important to understand that company IT assets might be electronic equipment, hardware and software used to run and manage business.
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Issues revolving management and disposal of company assets
The disposal of company assets has been becoming quite difficult over the years. Technological advances and third party offerings have made IT environments increasingly complex and diverse, making it difficult to clearly define what constitutes an IT asset and how it is managed.
Many organizations move away from traditional practices and choose different definitions for their IT assets depending on the nature of their business, the role of things in the IT ecosystem and the need for information to support decision making.
Other IT components covered by the new approach also include
Infrastructure equipment
Network equipment, data centers, physical servers, etc. purchased and operated by the company as part of its day-to-day operations.
Software licenses
Also known as commercial off-the-shelf software, these are programs created by someone else for which a license has been purchased for a period of time. Note that the asset is a license, not software.
Company-owned end-user terminals
End-user devices, such as desktops PCs, laptops, tablets and smartphones, are traditionally considered IT assets. Remember that employee-owned devices do not belong to the company. This is important because the concept of “Bring Your Own Device” has become a common practice in recent years.
Digital transaction data
Data is increasingly seen as an IT asset that has value, management and maintenance throughout its lifecycle. Operational data is particularly important for digital businesses and is also key to the disposal of IT assets when they are decommissioned.
Asset disposal management (ITAD)
IT asset management (ITAD) is a process by which a company ensures that its IT assets are properly managed, increasing the efficiency and productivity of the organization, minimizing costs plus gaining a return for termination of use.
Asset management provides, among other things, up-to-date and complete information on the composition of the asset and its relationships and, if necessary, makes this data available at the time of decision making.
This process integrates financial, contractual, inventory and planning aspects, in addition to ensure full visibility of IT assets. This allows companies to optimize the lifecycle of their equipment and make decision-making easier on their IT systems.
Importance of IT asset management and disposition nowadays
Asset management and disposition helps companies control their assets and their availability, which makes it easier for teams to reduce waste and improve equipment uses. This saves costs by avoiding unneeded purchases, reducing costs associated with licensing and technical support. Greater control also enforces compliance with legal and safety policies, reducing any kind of risks. The cost and productivity benefits ultimately benefit the entire organization.