Why ITAD is the Secret to Staying Ahead of Emerging Technology Considerations

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With new applications and opportunities demanding new technologies and IT strategies, the digital world is changing and evolving by the day. Of course, with this development, there is widespread excitement over new and valuable opportunities for businesses and end-users alike to streamline, augment and optimize. However, rapid technology change also gives businesses much to think about as the learning curve becomes steeper and the pace of shifting operations becomes harder to keep up with.

As enterprises continue to forge ahead into the future defined by 5G, Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things and more, there are a few top considerations that should be managed carefully as they implement and plan for new and exciting changes.

Business Continuity

As quickly as new strategies and processes are introduced across the range of business verticals, the old and outdated are being just as quickly thrown out. For example, January 14, 2020, marks what is essentially the end of Windows 7 — and this end will come even sooner for those who have not implemented a recent security update.

While this software may seem long left behind, the truth is that it’s still very popular. Reports note that in 2019, 79 percent of organizations still had at least one Windows 7 system on their network. With no more updates or support being offered for this software iteration, many enterprises are facing a sudden need to revisit and revitalize their business frameworks, meaning that operations may be disrupted and value may be lost. Furthermore, events like these are likely to become more frequent as the pace of digital transformation quickens.

Security

Security is undeniably one of the most vital elements of any business in our digitally-dominated world. As more technologies and operational frameworks arise, cybersecurity threats and weaknesses tend to proliferate. Additionally, as newer implementations cause more IT turnover,  more devices reach their end-of-life stage and must be disposed of. The data that still resides within these lingering assets must not be forgotten, as it can lead to vulnerabilities, breaches and subsequent financial and reputational risks. In fact, in 2019, U.S. data breaches incurred an average cost of $8.19 million for affected businesses, up from $7.35 million in 2017.

As enterprises look to ensure end-to-end security measures across their operations and remove barriers to valuable digitization, companies must adjust their traditional security frameworks and consider more comprehensive approaches.

Sustainability

As we collectively head into the future of ubiquitous technological innovation, e-waste is subsequently growing as a global concern. As more devices and equipment are introduced, more are getting thrown away. In 2018, it was predicted that around 49.8 million tons of electronic waste would be produced on a global scale. Furthermore, it’s been reported that in the past, only 20 percent of e-waste was recycled through appropriate channels. This poses risks not only for businesses facing tightening state, local and federal regulations, but for global populations and ecosystems that may be harmed by the toxic chemicals and metals contained in these objects. As such, remaining ethical and compliant as IT turnover quickens is in everyone’s best interest.

Your Greatest Ally

Although it may seem like a lot to manage, an IT Asset Disposition specialist can be the key to ensuring all aspects of future-proof business success are covered with as much ease and peace of mind as possible.

 Liquid Technology, an industry-leading expert in IT equipment liquidation, secure data destruction and e-waste management, ensures that enterprises have easy access to the services and support they need to stay ahead of changing IT requirements. To avoid costly mishaps and cover gaps in data defenses, the company provides trusted and transparent data destruction and conscientious, thorough end-of-life asset management. Plus, to keep ecosystems and global communities safe from e-waste dangers, ensure transparent compliance with complex regulations and position enterprises as stewards of sustainability, Liquid Technology’s services are e-Stewards Certified, R2 Certified, and ISO 14001 Certified.

Additionally, Liquid Technology is available to guide any businesses looking to phase out Windows 7, helping to formulate the best plan of action and serve as a partner to ensure security, efficiency and thorough care throughout the process.

The rapidly-evolving technology industry keeps businesses on their toes, and as 2020 brings new strategies, applications and beyond, businesses need not worry about their ability to keep pace. By partnering with an expert in end-of-life asset management, businesses can enjoy reduced complexity, enhanced security and enhanced compliance throughout the future, even as the digital world grows and changes.

Originally posted via Data Center Post.