Every business, regardless of size, relies heavily on technology to keep operations running smoothly. Whether laptops, tablets, or mobile phones, these IT assets are crucial for employees to perform their duties effectively. However, as companies grow and adopt more flexible work environments, keeping track of these assets becomes increasingly challenging—and costly.
The impact of asset loss on your business
Imagine the financial impact on your business if you had to replace multiple lost laptops or recover data from a misplaced tablet. The direct costs, such as replacing the hardware, are just the beginning. There are also hidden costs like potential data breaches. Not to mention, the lack of access to necessary tools can disrupt workflows and reduce productivity.
The challenge of managing IT assets has become even more pronounced with the rise of hybrid working models. Employees often work from various locations, making it difficult for IT departments to maintain visibility over the equipment. With some employees never stepping foot in the office, tasks like software updates or returning equipment at the end of its lifecycle can turn into logistical nightmares.
This lack of visibility is an inconvenience with serious implications. Research shows that 25% of employees have, at some point, misplaced essential work-related assets. Moreover, one-third of organizations are unaware of what hardware they possess, where it is located, or who is using it. This lack of oversight not only increases the likelihood of losses but also puts companies at greater risk of cyber security breaches, especially in a remote work environment.
Simplify tracking and reduce losses
So, how can businesses address this growing problem? The solution lies in better IT asset management, a comprehensive approach that involves tracking both physical and intangible assets. By having a clear view of what assets you have and where they are located, your business can make more informed decisions, ensure that all equipment is fully utilized, and reduce unnecessary expenses.
One of the most effective tools for improving IT asset management is the use of smart lockers. These lockers provide a secure, automated way to store and manage IT equipment. They also offer a digital, real-time record of transactions, so you always know who has accessed an asset and when. This transparency can help hold employees accountable for the items they use and significantly reduce the incidence of lost or stolen equipment.
Consider a business with 3,000 computers. Implementing a smart locker system could save the company substantial amounts by minimizing asset loss (around £240,000!). These lockers can be integrated with existing building management systems and managed remotely, allowing for a seamless transition of assets between suppliers and employees. By using smart lockers, businesses can ensure that their IT assets are organized, accounted for, and available when needed.
Beyond just asset tracking, smart lockers also enhance security. With encrypted cloud integration and 24/7 accessibility, they offer a robust solution for storing high-value or consumable items. Whether it’s laptops, spare parts, confidential documents, or office keys, everything is securely stored and easily retrievable, helping to keep operations moving smoothly.
Our IT asset management solution: Smart Locker Systems
If your business is struggling with managing IT assets, Velocity’s Smart Locker System and Smart Collect app offer a comprehensive solution. Built on ServiceNow, Smart Collect provides seamless integration with your existing systems, automating the entire asset management process. From request management to asset tracking and restocking, Smart Collect ensures that every step is streamlined and efficient. Plus, with customizable options, this solution can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your business, regardless of industry or company size.
Investing in a smart locker system is not just about reducing losses; it’s about enhancing productivity, improving security, and gaining peace of mind. By knowing exactly where your IT assets are at all times, you can focus on what really matters—growing your business.