Getting the latest and greatest IT equipment is very important for many businesses, but there’s a huge disconnect when it comes to investing in proper IT asset disposal. ITAD should be at the top of the priority list for companies that use IT equipment. Improper ITAD can lead to many different problems, like data breaches, fines, and ESG reporting gaps. As a business using IT equipment and looking into proper ITAD, it’s important to know some of the most common mistakes that companies make during IT asset disposal. We’re going to highlight some of these top mistakes so that you can avoid them when creating your ITAD plan.
Top Mistakes Companies Make During IT Asset Disposal
Treating ITAD as an Afterthought
IT disposal is often only thought about once the devices start to pile up and it becomes an issue, which isn’t ideal or proactive when it comes to proper ITAD. Multiple issues can come with this approach and make things harder on the team and company. For example, waiting until equipment piles up can result in missed value recovery, lost tracking, and blind spots in compliance. If you find yourself not thinking about IT disposal until it becomes a problem, then it’s time to incorporate ITAD into the lifecycle of your IT assets. This will keep your company on top of disposal, while staying compliant and avoiding the buildup that can cause stress and difficulties.
Data Security Practice Issues
Data security is one of the top reasons you should have an ITAD system in place, because breaches can cause huge problems for your company and your customers. One thing to remember is that simply “deleting” data is not enough when it comes to IT devices. In today’s world, deleted information can still be recoverable by unauthorized sources. This can lead to data breaches, lawsuits, and the loss of customer trust in your services. You’ve probably heard of companies that suffered breaches costing them thousands or even millions, along with losing customers. To avoid a data breach, it’s important to use proper data destruction methods such as shredding, degaussing, or NIST 800-88. To ensure the process is done properly, record and track destruction for compliance and accountability both inside and outside the company.
Not Paying Attention to Compliance and Regulations
Compliance and regulatory requirements cannot be skipped for companies that handle IT devices. These regulations are put in place for the safety of your customers, information, and your business. Some of these include e-waste regulations, HIPAA, and SOX. Not following these protocols can result in hefty fines, legal action, and even brand damage. It’s important to implement ITAD practices that meet compliance and regulation requirements. Working with an ITAD company allows you to receive certifications and documentation that verify your compliance.
Not Repurposing or Reselling Assets
ITAD doesn’t just refer to disposing of devices — it can also include repurposing and reselling them for another use. Many companies miss this opportunity, but repurposing helps promote a circular economy and can give back to communities or other businesses. If you’re not repurposing, you’re wasting materials that could be reused and missing out on extra revenue from reselling. Working with a certified ITAD company can help you repurpose and resell your assets responsibly.
Ignoring ESG and Environmental Implications
Your environmental impact as a company that uses IT assets is extremely important, so being aware of it is crucial. If you’re sending assets straight to a landfill, you’re missing a huge opportunity to improve your environmental impact and appeal to ESG investors. You can work with certified recyclers to recycle unused assets, as well as reuse programs to help distribute equipment to organizations that can utilize it.
Lack of Internal Policies
It’s important to ensure that everyone in your business is on the same page when it comes to ITAD practices. Everyone should know the process, what needs to be done, and how to report it. Without clear communication, you risk missing assets and inconsistent disposal, which can lead to bigger problems like data breaches. Having policies that are easily communicated and understood keeps everyone aligned and accountable.
Work With an ITAD Vendor to Keep Your Disposal in Check
Avoiding these mistakes starts with working with a certified and experienced ITAD vendor. It’s important for companies to partner with an IT disposal provider to ensure compliance with regulations, maximize asset value, and stay on top of reporting. They’re a crucial part of your business operations, helping you avoid breaches, maintain customer trust, and stay focused on environmental impact, regulations, and everything in between. If your business hasn’t yet invested in an ITAD vendor, contact us — now is the perfect time to get started.
