Stop getting frustrated with aging tech: how to tell when it’s time to upgrade

Hint: it has to do with AI and data analytics

Every year, technology advances faster and faster, sometimes outpacing a company’s ability to purchase the latest and greatest models for their teams.

The laptop or smartphone you’re reading this article from has an average lifespan of two-and-a-half-to-five years, give or take, and when it’s time to upgrade, it lets you know by a lack of touch in that touchscreen or taking longer to start up. Before you realize it, you’re setting aside 30 minutes of workaround time to compensate for outdated technology.

But let’s be honest—it really involves yelling into the computer screen hoping it will boot up in time for your meeting in five minutes.

Enter: AI and data analytics.

Why? Because the future (and your blood pressure) depends on it.

This isn’t Skynet from the classic American movie series The Terminator―AI isn’t seeking vengeance and the movie’s protagonist Sarah Connor isn’t coming to save you like she did on the silver screen. It’s simply saying it’s time for an upgrade. Rest assured, it’s just a funny coincidence this author’s last name is “Connor.” 😉

Why data analytics and AI

The integration of AI and data analytics enables companies to be more proactive about their IT assets. By leveraging historical data and predictive analytics, companies can forecast when devices will fail or need updates.

“Lean in, use our data analytics that we have to help you manage your refresh for your customers, and make better decisions on when they should refresh,” said Kevin Corrigan, Ingram Micro executive director of U.S. Channel IT Asset Disposition (ITAD).

AI tools like data learning and predictive analytics help drive decisions around when a device might need to be upgraded.

“AI is being leveraged through data learning and historical data learning about the assets. Things like purchase history, where do these assets go, who is the end user, are used to help our partners drive net new sales of units,” said Corrigan. “All this information helps us determine who might need upgrades or refurbishments, which is where our ITAD services come in.”

Predictive analytics = proactive

It’s not just about when it’s time for a refresh, but also the most optimal time to upgrade or offload devices, courtesy of predictive analytics and maintenance. Historical sales data and depreciation models can reveal when a device is likely to lose its value, providing companies with a financial advantage. For example, a laptop might decline in value by a certain amount each year, and predictive models can share the ideal time to refresh while the device still has resale value.

“We’re using predictive analytics to look at the future value of that laptop, and when’s the ideal time for you to offload that laptop financially," said Corrigan.

Not only does this approach save companies money, it also reduces e-waste and minimizes environmental impacts overall.

Make devices last longer

If budget is on the tighter side, rather than replacing devices every two to three years, more companies are holding on to their devices for longer by refurbishing and redeploying the device, says Corrigan. In 2022, the globe produced 62 metric tons of e-waste, a number that’s expected to increase to 82 metric tons by 2030. Finding ways to reduce e-waste has never been more impactful.

Some companies are refreshing devices every four to six years, and AI and data analytics are crucial in supporting this shift. By tracking the condition and performance of devices throughout their lifecycle, companies can decide the best route to take.

Compliance standards with data-driven e-waste management

Meeting environmental and e-waste standards can help businesses play a role in successfully reusing or recycling e-waste through certifications such as e-Stewards, R2 and ElektroG. AI can play an indirect role when tracking the device lifecycle through GPS tracking and data analytics, ensuring that end-of-life assets are disposed of in compliance with environmental standards. This helps ensure devices do not end up in countries where asset management practices may be less regulated.

Stop yelling at the computer screen and get with the (Ingram Micro) program

Lifecycle asset management can seem daunting, but Ingram Micro’s ITAD program can help companies use data analytics, predictive maintenance and Depot Services, where out-of-warranty technology is repaired to avoid unnecessary disposal. For smaller partners who may not have access to robust systems for tracking asset lifecycles, Ingram Micro can provide comprehensive asset-management reporting tools.

All theatrics aside, staying ahead of technology’s curves can not only keep things running smoothly, but also help make smarter, more sustainable decisions for IT infrastructure. You just need the right tools and resources, and Ingram Micro has them ready when you’re willing to outpace e-waste.

Learn how to save devices from termination and recycle.

Save my devices now

Jackie Connor is a writer with more than 15 years of experience contributing to news publications and marketing teams. Since joining Ingram Micro in 2022, she covers technology services, financial solutions, marketing, sustainability and DEIB. She is not related to the rebel female protagonist from “The Terminator.”

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