November 12, 2019 | Category: Articles | Tags: , ,

For companies that leverage the power of technology, planning a proper refresh of IT assets is essential to be successful. An IT asset refresh is the replacement of hardware and software devices. Asset refreshes are necessary on a recurring basis to keep companies relevant and efficient. If you are interested in properly upgrading the technology at your company, take a look at our advice on how to properly plan a lifecycle refresh.

Step 1: Take Inventory of Your IT Assets

To properly plan a lifecycle refresh, you must first have a firm understanding of what you own and how it is being used. To maintain a proper inventory, you should have a record of each device, the primary user of the device, the primary use of the device, and all of the scheduled and performed updates. A proper inventory will help you keep a pulse on the health of all your IT assets.

Step 2: Don’t Wait Too Long to Upgrade Your Technology

There is an optimal time for every lifecycle refresh. Today, technology is constantly evolving which creates a shorter lifespan for technology devices. According to IT experts, the most appropriate time to upgrade is every 3-5 years. Companies that wait too long to upgrade face major risks.

Risks of Waiting Too Long to Upgrade:

  • Unmanageable amount of IT orders
  • Significant employee downtime
  • Lack of efficiency
  • Costly (non-bulk) upgrades

It is important to understand that not all your assets will live on the same lifecycle. Certain hardware has a longer lifespan than others. To ensure you upgrade your technology at the right time and plan a proper refresh, consult a managed service provider for assistance.

Step 3: Plan Ahead for Your Next Refresh

Once you have identified the proper lifecycle for your IT assets, it’s time to create a plan for the future. When you purchase new assets, you should already know how long they will last, what your budget is to maintain them, and when you will upgrade again in the future. This type of future outlook helps to prevent unnecessary spending and ensure you are always operating at optimal efficiency.

Perform an IT Asset Audit Before You Plan Your Next Lifecycle Refresh

Before you start ordering new hardware and software for your business, get a firm understanding of the performance of your current assets. An IT asset audit is the best way to gain a comprehensive picture of your needs.

At E2C we are happy to help you assess the state of your current IT assets as well as determine what you will need in the future. By getting to know your business, our expert IT service providers can help you plan your next lifecycle refresh step-by-step so you don’t have to make any guesses.

Don’t wait any longer to take control of your technology. ReTHINK your IT today. Contact the IT solutions team at E2C and let them provide the comprehensive solutions your business needs to move into the future!