Hardware lifecycle management is a proactive method of ensuring all desktops, laptops, servers, networking equipment, and other technology devices remain within a recommended lifecycle with warranty coverage when possible.
End of Life Budgeting
Desktops and laptops typically have a lifespan of 36 to 60 months depending on the quality of the hardware and the task it is being utilized for. Assuming a simple calculation of 60 months, this means that an organization must replace 5% of all hardware every quarter or 20% of all hardware annually. This keeps the “fleet” current and does not address growth of the organization.
Determining Age
Many MSPs will have automated reporting that shows each device along with a purchase date, warranty end date, end of life date, and replacement cost. This reporting is typically derived from the MSPs RMM or Remote Monitoring and Management software. RMM software will typically use the serial number of the device to gather purchase date and warranty end date automatically for major brand hardware such as Dell, Lenovo, and HP.
Efficiency and Uptime Improvement
Proactive hardware lifecycle management ensures all devices are being managed within a useful lifespan. This helps ensure equipment is operating correctly and quickly. This boosts productivity of the organization by having a team that is not attempting to use old and slow equipment. Current equipment also improves uptime by reducing outages and hardware failures. Many team members will also not speak up when equipment is slow. They will just “deal with it” and work slower.
Team Morale
We all know how excited we are on the day that we get a new mobile phone. It is like having a new toy in our hand. The same excitement happens to a team member with a new laptop or desktop. It gives a boost in efficiency and makes the workday less stressful. It is also a small way to show the team member that the organization cares and is invested in the well being of everyone on the team.
Key Takeaways
Hardware lifecycle management is a key element in keeping teams efficient and avoiding unnecessary downtime. With proper planning and budgeting, this investment will provide a positive return with enhanced productivity, improved morale, and fewer surprises.
About Intelos
Intelos is a managed services provider (MSP) based in Texas and Louisiana. Our primary focus is energy, manufacturing, and local government. We are a cloud and security focused MSP with a mission to empower organizations with transformative technology, guiding them towards enhanced efficiency, profitability, and risk mitigation.