Global IT asset disposition service resources for those seeking an Arrow replacement
On July 15, 2019, Arrow Electronics announced they were exiting the IT asset disposition (ITAD) market with this announcement. In short, they indicated, “The decision has been made to cease operations of the personal computer and mobility asset disposition business,” leaving many clients searching for an Arrow replacement.
Since then, multiple press releases from ITAD vendors have been distributed touting their services as alternatives to Arrow. It is difficult to sort through claims and make an informed decision quickly for an Arrow replacement. Sims Lifecycle Services (SLS) compiled some resources to help you clarify vendor differences.
THIRD PARTY RESEARCH: What do industry experts say about ITAD vendor selection?
Gartner, a prominent IT research and advisory company, published a “Market Guide for IT Asset Disposition (ITAD)” reporti in July 2018. This report profiles 19 IT asset disposition companies, based on independent market research and vendor surveys.
The Market Guide, which replaced Gartner’s Magic Quadrant for IT Asset Disposition, Worldwide report* is an excellent starting point for finding an Arrow replacement. Get a complimentary copy of Gartner’s Market Guide for IT Disposition report.
CERTIFICATIONS AND STANDARDS: Vendors tout industry certifications. Are these important?
Industry certifications provide proof, as demonstrated through external audits, that a selected vendor operates to a certain set of standards. The most common industry certifications for ITAD and e-recycling are ISO 14001, OHSAS 18001, ISO 27001, R2:2013 and WEEELABEX. Descriptions of these certifications and their importance can be found at the bottom of this webpage.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS: What are your ITAD needs?
Besides specific processing capabilities, logistics is a big cost driver in securely moving retired assets. So one thing to consider is the location of your assets relative to vendor processing centers. This initial road mapping can guide an initial vendor shortlist.
Another initial consideration is how you handle data bearing assets. Is data destroyed while assets are still in your custody? Do you remove storage media from assets prior to shipping? What is the mix of assets you are retiring?
We find that the requirements of most clients fall into one of three categories:
- Clients have current technology — PCs, laptops, mobile devices – and are looking for robust resale services.
- Clients have a mix of current technology with resale potential, and broken or old equipment that needs to be responsibly recycled.
- Clients have only broken or old equipment that needs to be responsibly recycled.
Being realistic about your product mix can also help you select the right vendor.
VENDOR SELECTION: Do you have time to go through a formal RFP process to select a new vendor? Can you afford not to?
You probably selected Arrow through a RFP process. Reminding yourself why you selected Arrow, and understanding their strengths and weaknesses can help you successfully select a new Arrow replacement.
If you are going through a formal selection process, do you need to refresh the RFP you used for your Arrow selection? You may find SLS’ RFP Template for ITAD helpful.
Our 54-page RFP template includes sample questions for your ITAD RFP and helps you ensure:
- Complete digital data destruction and secure chain of custody
- Resourceful processing of equipment – reuse and recycling
- Compliance with corporate mandates and regulatory requirements
- Alignment with your corporate sustainability goals
- Vetting of all employees, subcontractors and vendors
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: Guidance on building a successful global IT asset disposition program.
SRS created a white paper describing how to develop a global IT asset disposition program. This white paper explores the regulatory environment, corporate compliance considerations, operational considerations for centrally managed ITAD programs and vendor selection.
You may view the SLS’ Global IT Asset Disposition White Paper as pdf or webpage.