Tip: How to Manage Unallocated Computers
Posted in Asset Lifecycle Management, IT Asset Management, Tips on October 30th, 2009 by Jodi – Be the first to commentCompanies dealing with unallocated computers (PCs they own, but are not currently in use) often find themselves struggling to administer these important assets. Unallocated computers can exist for a variety of reasons. For example, when staff members leave a firm, their computers may be put into storage until replacement employees are hired. Or, a business may buy computers in bulk to obtain a large discount from the vendor, then keep those PCs on hand as spares to replace computers that break or become outdated, or for when new workers are brought on board.
Why track unallocated computers?
Even though they are not being utilized at the present time, unallocated computers still need to be effectively managed, much in the same way as those assets that are currently in use. Losing track of unallocated PCs can result in a variety of issues, including:
- Overbuying. Companies who cannot accurately monitor their unallocated computers may find themselves wasting money by purchasing equipment they do not need.
- Equipment shortages. When IT teams cannot account for unallocated assets, they often struggle to address emergency situations, which can ultimately lead to lost productivity. For example, if they do not know where unallocated computers are located, they cannot provide an employee with an immediate replacement if their PC suddenly breaks, or has to unexpectedly go in for repair or service.
- Becoming outdated. Unallocated PCs are often forgotten when important upgrades, patches, or enhancements take place.
Creating an “Asset Pool” in SAManage
Here are some tips on effective ways to monitor unallocated computers with SAManage:
- Create a new department, called “unallocated computers” or “computer pool“, then assign any PCs that are currently in stock – but not in use – to that department.
- Frequently review unallocated PCs by running a report of all assets by department, then selecting the one (“unallocated computers” or “computer pool”) to which all unused PCs were assigned. This will provide an at-a-glance view of the status and location of all unallocated computers, and allow IT staff to “drill down” on the history and related activities of each one individually.
- When an unallocated computer is assigned to a user, update the asset status and department to the new department (i.e. “accounting” or “sales”), effectively taking it out of the “computer pool”.
Visit our Web site to learn more about SaaS IT asset management from SAManage, and how it can help your company better track and manage its unallocated computers, and other important technology systems throughout their lifecycle.
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