As technology advances at a breakneck pace, companies in every industry feel the pressure to keep up with each new trend. It is well known that all IT hardware will eventually reach the end of its lifecycle, with many devices breaking down or being rendered out-of-date within a few short years. After all, even if your company’s current electronics are still usable, you may want or need to upgrade to devices with more sophisticated features.

But disposing of your outdated devices can prove surprisingly complicated. This is because e-waste disposal is tied to various concerns, from environmental sustainability to data security.

So, when it comes time to purchase new devices for your business, how can you safely retire outdated equipment? It’s no longer suitable to simply ship unusable devices to the landfill. To meet eco-friendly and data privacy standards, your company needs the support of an ITAD servicer.

What Is ITAD?

At its most basic, IT asset disposition — known by the acronym ITAD — is a process to securely dispose of your company’s outdated electronic equipment. Although it’s tempting to drop your outdated IT equipment in the recycling bin or donate usable devices to a local charity, safely disposing of your electronic devices isn’t that simple.

For one thing, deleting all your files and documents doesn’t ensure that a device has actually been cleared of data. Your electronics may still contain sensitive information such as passwords, birthdays, social security numbers, or even private communications and proprietary research. Proper ITAD is an essential part of protecting your organization’s data and ensuring the information on your unused electronic assets is not compromised.

Typically, ITAD employs two phases to decommission your hardware. In the first phase, servicers thoroughly wipe the data from all of your company’s equipment with guaranteed data destruction methods. Then they will remove all asset tags to ensure that the electronic devices are no longer associated with your company. From there, the physical equipment will also be destroyed or recycled.

These days, sensitive data can lurk on the most unexpected devices, even if you think they’ve been cleared of all files. Fortunately, most electronics can be securely recycled with the help of an ITAD servicer, including desktop computers, servers, and common mobile devices such as tablets, laptops, and cell phones.

How Does ITAD Fit Into IT Lifecycle Management?

When your organization obtains an electronic device, it marks the beginning of the product’s lifecycle with your team. For the sake of management and recordkeeping, your business should implement a system to track these devices, which typically includes barcoding or tagging each item. However, when the device is no longer usable, ITAD must take place to remove all asset tags and eradicate any information stored within the devices. Essentially, ITAD marks a final and essential stage of IT lifecycle management.

As an aside, ITAD can also play a helpful role for companies ready to take the plunge into cloud-based work models. As you move your databases from in-house servers to more cloud services, you need assurance that your old servers are completely and thoroughly decommissioned. In this instance, ITAD services can provide peace of mind and help support your team’s seamless transition into a new workflow.

The Benefits of IT Asset Disposition

Working with a certified ITAD provider can benefit your company greatly. To begin with, ITAD experts can advise your team on the best time and manner to dispose of outdated electronics. In some cases, they may be able to help you resell devices after completing data destruction or make money on the basic parts and components.

In addition, ITAD also protects your organization’s data security — and by extension, its reputation. Partnering with certified ITAD providers significantly reduces the risk that your company’s data will be leaked or stolen, a crisis that can damage both your revenue and public trust. Think you’re unlikely to be affected by a data breach? That may be wishful thinking. Data security breaches have increased a whopping 50% in just one year. And if a data breach occurs, it can cost your company significantly. The average cost of a data breach has reached $4.24 million, which is the highest average cost in the past 17 years. With so much at risk, why leave your company unnecessarily vulnerable when ITAD services can easily help safeguard your data?

Furthermore, a proactive ITAD strategy not only protects your company and electronic assets — it also protects the environment. With the growing narrative around green initiatives and corporate social responsibility, concerns around the health and environmental effects of improper e-waste disposal are also on the rise. The concern? When the toxic materials from e-waste disposal seep into the surrounding area, it contaminates the land, water, and air. This can cause serious health issues, including birth defects, neurological disorders, lung impairment, and other chronic diseases. However, working with certified ITAD providers is a great way to reduce your company’s environmental footprint while ensuring that your outdated electronic devices do not end up in a landfill. 

ITAD Services You Can Rely On with FAMCe

If your business or organization is in search of a reputable ITAD provider, First America Metal Corp. (FAMCe) can help. With locations across the US, our professionals are ready to accommodate your recycling needs with a commitment to security, convenience, and premium customer service.

FAMCe has over 30 years of experience helping businesses safely and responsibly recycle their outdated devices, even accommodating the needs of organizations in regulated industries. Our proven expertise has built our reputation as a market leader, but we don’t rest on our laurels — instead, we make it a point to exceed each client’s needs and expectations. So whatever e-waste solutions you require, FAMCe can deliver.

Disposing of your e-waste may seem like an inconvenience, but it’s also an opportunity to demonstrate corporate sustainability and help build a brighter future. So when it’s time to get rid of your old waste electronics, choose a partner you can rely on.

Want to recycle your outdated devices with confidence? Contact FAMCe today for ITAD services and e-waste disposal that’s ethical and secure.