Guide to Responsible IT Asset Disposition

Recycling bin full of old electronic devices

As the business world moves further and further into the digital age, companies are acquiring a large volume of electronic devices so their employees can utilize the latest technology. And while these companies are putting controls in place to protect their confidential data during day-to-day business, they might not have a plan for when electronics outlive their usefulness and need to be retired.

WHAT IS IT ASSET DISPOSITION?

IT asset disposition (ITAD) is the practice of disposing of computers, servers, smart devices, storage devices, routers, and other electronic equipment that a company no longer needs. Many of these devices contain proprietary company and customer data that, if it were to fall into the wrong hands, could cause serious organizational harm due to corporate privacy laws. Therefore, ITAD is exceedingly important for businesses in highly regulated industries that face strict scrutiny.

When these items are being disposed of, the process should be handled in a secure and environmentally friendly manner. Often, this process is best handled by an outside firm that specializes in IT asset management and can tailor disposal plans to meet each company’s specific needs. Some of the common options for IT assets include:

  • Recycling
  • Resale
  • Repurposing within the company
  • Donation to charitable organizations

THE BENEFITS OF SECURE IT ASSET DISPOSITION

Why is secure IT asset destruction important? Depending on the company and industry, there are several benefits to partnering with an experienced and reputable IT asset management company, including:

DATA SECURITY & REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

Your company is likely committing significant resources to ensure that data security is a priority during day-to-day business, so why should the asset disposal process be any different? Data breaches that originate from discarded equipment can easily be prevented with the right partner handling your company’s ITAD needs and ensuring that secure data destruction takes place.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

Leading ITAD companies should have a system in place for ensuring that your unwanted equipment can be recycled using secure practices that promote sustainability and abide by all applicable environmental regulations.

COST-EFFECTIVENESS

Your company has invested significantly in its IT assets, so it’s important that you receive a return on your investment whenever possible. Your ITAD partner should be able to sell equipment that’s still viable through wholesale channels so you can at least get some of your initial expenses back.

THE SECURE ITAD EXPERTS

Cascade Asset Management has been providing secure IT asset disposition services since 1999 for businesses of all types and sizes. We have locations in Madison, Wisconsin; Indianapolis, Indiana; and Orlando, Florida. Each of our locations provides tailored disposition processes for companies throughout the United States.

Why should you partner with Cascade Asset Management? Here are a few reasons to consider:

  • We’ve earned several high-level certifications, including NAID AAA, ISO 9001:2015, and ISO 14001, and we’re listed in the Gartner Market Guide for IT Asset Disposition.
  • We maintain a 99% customer satisfaction rating.
  • We helped pioneer the industry’s sustainability practices, and our recycling process meets all obligations under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.

WANT TO LEARN MORE?

Does your company need an IT asset disposition solution? If so, contact Cascade Asset Management today and let us tell you more about our services.