From problem to innovation
In the age of digitalization, companies are increasingly confronted with the challenge of managing their IT hardware efficiently, sustainably and economically. There is often a clear conflict: on the one hand, the need for high-performance technology and, on the other, the pressure to reduce costs and meet environmental requirements. But how can this apparent contradiction be resolved? A medium-sized company from the logistics sector shows how an innovative approach has revolutionized the life cycle of its hardware - with surprising results.
1. the initial situation: more devices, less control
The company, which operates throughout Europe, was faced with a growing IT infrastructure. Over 1,500 devices - from laptops and smartphones to network components - were in use. However, there was no clear concept for their life cycle. This led to problems such as:
- Loss of overview about devices in use and their condition.
- High costs due to inefficient hardware management.
- Risk potential due to insecure data deletion for decommissioned hardware.
- Environmental impact due to improper disposal.
It became clear that a structured approach was needed that took both economic and ecological aspects into account.
2. the solution: a new look at the hardware life cycle
The path to improvement began with a radical rethink: The life cycle of a device does not end after the first use. A three-stage approach was developed with the support of an external service provider:
a) Inventory and transparency
First, a central platform was introduced that records all devices and continuously documents their status.
👉 Tip: Tools for automated asset management can simplify the process considerably.
b) Extension of the useful life
Targeted measures - such as regular maintenance, upgrades and proactive fault detection - have extended the service life of the devices by an average of 25 %.
👉 Tip: Investing in hardware maintenance pays off in the long term.
c) Remarketing and recycling
Devices that were no longer needed went into a regulated remarketing process. Data was deleted in compliance with the BSI and the hardware was either resold or recycled sustainably.
👉 Find out more about BSI-compliant data erasure.
3. the results: Ecologically and economically convincing
After just two years, there was a clear improvement:
- Cost reduction: Savings of 20 % in IT operating costs.
- More efficient use: Devices were used for an average of 18 months longer.
- Sustainability: Over 90 % of the old appliances were successfully reused or recycled, which significantly improved the company's carbon footprint.
An employee remarked: "We finally have the feeling of regaining control - and doing something for the environment at the same time."
4 Conclusion: A model for the future
This case study shows that strategic IT lifecycle management can not only reduce costs, but also support a company's sustainability goals. The key lies in taking a holistic view of the hardware lifecycle and exploiting existing potential.
What does the life cycle of your IT look like?
With a structured approach and the right partners, you can also regain control and make your hardware more efficient.
