IT asset management (ITAM) has many benefits, including reducing costs and improving operational efficiency.
IT assets are investments. The key to getting more out of these investments is to actively manage their lifecycles from start to finish. If you’re not actively managing your IT assets, it’s time to consider getting help from a managed services provider (MSP).
What is IT Asset Management?
In IT, managing assets refers to a strategic approach to overseeing the software and hardware you use.
Small businesses often use over 170 apps. Managing these assests properly not only helps improve visibility over them, but also reduces waste and helps optimize usage, resulting in a cost-effective IT process. It also helps you extend the lifespan of your assets and get more out of your IT investments.
Moreover, as many industries face complex regulatory environments, ITAM is an important part of enforcing internal policies and compliance requirements.
The Stages of an IT Asset’s Lifecycle
A sound ITAM strategy should cover:
- Planning and purchasing the new IT solution. This inlcudes ensuring smooth adoption after purchase.
- Monitoring how it performs and looking into interactions with other IT assets.
- Maintaining the IT asset as needed, including repairs and upgrades.
- Retiring and replacing the asset when it reaches the end of its lifecycle.
How MSPs Elevate Your IT Asset Management Procedure
From acquisition to secure disposal, an MSP can take over the entire process of managing IT assets for your business. By using smart software, an MSP can track your hardware and software inventory, as well as your SaaS contractors, warranties, and other assets.
In the early stages of the lifecycle, an MSP can assist in choosing the right asset and deploying it in your environment, guiding you for optimal adoption and usage.
Your MSP will then monitor the asset. If a fix or upgrade is needed, your MSP will handle it. Through active monitoring, MSPs can also keep your IT assets safe from cybersecurity threats associated with unmanaged devices.
Lastly, through a continuous assessment of your needs, your MSP will recommend when you should retire and replace an asset.
Get More Out of Your IT Assets
If you’re not actively managing your IT assets’ lifecycles, it’s time to get help from an MSP. As a San Antonio-based MSP, SecureTech is your trusted partner for IT asset lifecycle management.
Contact us to learn more about how we can help you get more out of your IT infrastructure.