Managing PCs, software and peripherals is not easy. Users have different hardware and software configurations, and every PC needs regular software updates and patches. Service providers can help IT organizations manage desktop technology effectively by deploying a lifecycle management strategy that includes asset management, the purchase and tracking of warranties and maintenance agreements, and end-user training.
This effort — from the moment of purchase to disposal — allows IT departments to efficiently manage their technology, reduce help desk calls, cut costs, and meet security and compliance requirements. Service vendors typically offer a handful of services that helps your business manage your PCs and peripherals throughout their entire lifecycle.
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Configuration
The service provider handles hardware setup and installation, including software imaging, BIOS customization, application installation, VPN setup and asset tagging. Once configured, the staff tests the hardware to ensure it works properly.
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Onsite Installation
A service firm can install the computers and deploy them throughout your office. During the installation, technicians run tests to make sure each user’s setup works.
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Warranties
Service vendors offer affordable warranties that extend or upgrade the standard manufacturer warranties. This minimizes risk, reduces downtime and farms out repair work to the service company so you don’t have to worry about it. These extended warranties are for onsite or mail-in repairs.
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Maintenance/Break-Fix Agreements
If extended warranties are not enough, service companies also offer contracts that cover the repair or replacement of in- or out-of-warranty equipment. Support is available at whatever level you want, including same-day or next-day service.
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Staff Augmentation
Service providers can provide highly skilled IT staffers to augment your staff, whether it’s for a temporary project or on a full-time basis to help manage your day-to-day tasks. This allows you to quickly fill specific skill sets that you might not have in-house, such as an expert in server virtualization.
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Training and Education
A service provider can train your IT staff and your users through classroom training, self-paced online learning courses or live web-based courses. Training your staff how to use new applications reduces help desk calls and optimizes worker productivity. It’s also important to teach users about security or acceptable use policies to reduce security risks.
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Asset Disposition
If you need to retire equipment, service providers can coordinate asset disposition. This includes wiping hard drives and sending the materials to a reputable recycler that dismantles the equipment and recycles the parts.
Businesses who can streamline their desktop life cycle management cycles reduce time spent on operational tasks and have time to focus on innovation in the business. Desktop Lifecycle Management is a simple way for IT departments to free up time and worry so that time, energy and budget can be spent on improving business processes and implementing new IT to further business.
