Information Technology (IT) assets play a critical role in the smooth functioning of businesses today. From servers and laptops to software and mobile devices, these assets are essential for communication, data management, and the execution of daily operations. However, managing these IT assets can often be daunting for organisations.
IT assets not only help businesses stay competitive, but they also help improve efficiency, increase productivity, and make communication easier. Properly managing IT assets also helps to protect sensitive data and minimise the risk of security breaches. In today’s digital age, it has become more critical than ever for businesses to ensure that their IT assets are adequately managed to maximise the benefits they provide.
As technology advances and becomes an integral part of every business operation, managing IT assets has become crucial for companies of all sizes. However, with the constant influx of new devices and softwares, businesses can easily make mistakes in their IT asset management. These mistakes can range from failing to keep accurate records of devices and software, neglecting software updates and patches, to needing a proper disposal plan for end-of-life devices. These mistakes lead to unexpected costs and leave the business vulnerable to security breaches and data loss.
Below are the top 5 mistakes businesses make when managing their IT assets and how to avoid them to ensure that your business remains secure and your IT assets are adequately addressed.
- Failing to Keep Accurate Records
One of the most common mistakes businesses make with IT asset management is failing to keep accurate records of their devices and software. With an up-to-date inventory of your IT assets, it becomes easier to track warranties, licenses, and end-of-life dates. Meanwhile, failing to keep accurate records can lead to unexpected costs, such as accidental purchases of duplicate software licenses or failure to renew support for critical devices. It also makes it challenging to identify and address security vulnerabilities.
What’s the solution?
Businesses should implement a system for regularly updating and maintaining an accurate inventory of their IT assets. Companies can keep correct records through IT asset management software or assign a designated employee to update the list periodically.
- Not Having a Disposal Plan
Another mistake businesses make is not having a proper disposal plan for their IT assets. When devices come to the end of their useful life, they must be disposed of safely and securely to protect sensitive data. However, many businesses need a proper disposal plan and throw away devices without properly wiping the data, which can lead to data breaches and loss of sensitive information.
What’s the solution?
Companies should have a clear plan to dispose of IT assets and ensure that all data is erased safely before disposal. Proper disposal can be done through specialized software or by hiring a third-party vendor to dispose of the devices properly.
- Neglecting Software Updates and Patches
Keeping software up-to-date with the latest updates and patches is crucial for protecting against security vulnerabilities. However, many businesses neglect to update their software, leaving them vulnerable to attacks. Failing software updates and patches can lead to the loss of sensitive data, financial loss and damage to the company’s reputation.
What’s the solution?
Businesses should establish a regular schedule for updating and patching all software and train all employees on the importance of keeping software up-to-date if they want to avoid such issues. Businesses can efficiently achieve this by setting reminders for software updates and providing training on how to update software properly.
Also Read 5 Importance of Asset Management for Workplace Productivity
- Not Managing Mobile Devices
With the increasing popularity of mobile devices, many businesses need to manage and secure these devices properly. Not managing their mobile devices can lead to security vulnerabilities and data breaches through lost or stolen devices.
What’s the solution?
Companies should have a mobile device management plan and ensure that all mobile devices are always secure with a passcode and remote wipe capabilities. Companies can effectively manage their mobile devices by implementing mobile device management software or setting policies for mobile device usage in the company.
- Not Conducting Regular Audits
Regular audits of IT assets are essential to IT asset management, but many businesses need to do so. Regular audits help companies identify missing or unaccounted-for assets and track their IT assets’ performance. Regular audits can help companies to identify devices nearing end-of-life and plan for replacement, identify underutilised assets that can be reassigned or disposed of, and ensure that all software licences are valid and up-to-date.
What’s the solution?
Businesses should establish a regular schedule for IT asset audits and ensure that all employees are trained to participate in these audits. IT audits can be done through IT asset management software, which can automate the audit process, or by assigning a designated employee to conduct the audits regularly.
Managing IT assets is a crucial task for businesses of all sizes. By avoiding these common mistakes, companies can ensure that they are correctly managing their IT assets, protecting themselves from unexpected costs, and minimizing the risk of security breaches and data loss. Regularly updating inventory, having a proper disposal plan, keeping software updated, properly managing mobile devices and conducting regular audits are the key steps to ensure the IT assets are efficient and productive.
At Rayda, we understand the importance of IT asset management and can help you manage, repair, and insure your IT assets efficiently. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business.
