When it comes to university administrators, the last thing they want is to see a significant investment, like a growing collection of devices, end up as piles of useless tech. It’s not only bad for business, but it’s also harmful to the environment. That’s why it’s crucial to start planning for device recycling long before end-of-life arrives. It’s an opportunity to get creative and give these devices a new lease on life.
One common strategy for handling device end-of-life is participating in device recycling programs to get a small financial return. However, without good visibility into the devices they own, institutions may struggle to maximize these returns. This is where device management programs like Jamf or Windows Autopilot come in. These programs offer benefits throughout a device’s lifecycle, from zero-touch deployment to asset tagging to track device usage.
Having insights from a device management platform is essential for determining what happens when a device is retired. It helps universities identify and clean up any sensitive information stored on the devices before they are decommissioned. This is crucial for data security, especially in higher education, which is a frequent target for cybercriminals.
Repurposing devices requires special attention to data security. While physically destroying hard drives can enhance security, it may limit reuse possibilities. Failing to fully erase data from a device’s hardware can leave vulnerabilities open to cyberattacks. It’s important to comply with state regulations for electronic recycling to ensure proper disposal.
Community Connections Can Boost Applications and Enrollment
Universities can repurpose older devices internally by loaning them to students or connecting them to a campus network for less-demanding tasks. They can also extend their impact beyond campus by donating devices to local K–12 schools, helping students overcome technological barriers.
These initiatives not only benefit the community but also strengthen the bond between the university and its surroundings. By fostering goodwill and supporting local education, universities can attract a more diverse and educated applicant pool.
As higher education faces challenges like declining enrollments, building these community connections can secure a university’s future for generations to come.
UP NEXT: Can technology help community colleges avoid the enrollment cliff?
This article is part of EdTech: Focus on Higher Education’s UniversITy blog series.
