Located minutes away from the famous Las Vegas Strip, the IAITAM 2017 Spring ACE brought together IT asset management professionals from across the nation to network and discuss issues, topics and trends surrounding software and hardware IT asset management.

The International Association of IT Asset Managers (IAITAM) is at the forefront of delivering the world’s longest running IT asset management (ITAM) conference. They refer to their Annual Conference and Exhibition (ACE) as inspiration for ITAM programs and are devoted to expanding industry knowledge. Sims Recycling Solutions’ (SRS) executives were thrilled to present, as well as exhibit, at the 2017 Spring ACE in Henderson, Nev. this past May 2-4 at the M Resort.

Our very own industry expert, Sean Magann, Vice President of SRS, spoke in regards to maximizing your IT asset management program in a session on Tuesday afternoon. Magann’s session titled, “What You Need to Know: A to Z in Global Electronic Asset Management” analyzed three main challenges companies face when dealing with materials past the end of their useful life: data, value and environmental compliance. In addition, while focusing on the global economy, Magann provided direction on how to protect data and clarity on downstream processes.

While several sessions covered a wide range of ITAM trends, attendees were able to reflect on the secure implementation and management of old and new technology. Here is an outline of some key takeaways from the conference.

  • Security risks associated with end-of-life equipment should still be top of mind ­– Based on the 2016 Verizon Data Breach Investigation Report, over 16 percent of data breaches were the result of physically attaining the data from equipment that were not handled securely.
  • Strategies for maximizing the return of used equipment should be considered – It is important for every business model to unlock the hidden value of used IT equipment without compromising data security. This can not only be accomplished by reselling whole components, but also through parts harvesting.
  • Focus your ITAD budget on a white glove service that includes a dedicated truck – One of the most important considerations, and expenses, during the IT asset disposition process is to ensure your program has a dedicated truck. This will provide you with assurance that your equipment will not be compromised on its way back to the facility.

While there were a myriad of key takeaways in addition to these three, these are what we found to be significant to run a successful and sustainable IT asset disposition program.

Download our latest white paper to learn more about how you can strengthen your ITAD security.