Windows 10 is officially here. For OEMs and IT asset managers, will this be an XP-like driver of massive PC and laptop upgrades in the enterprise? Most analysts agree that scenario is not likely. However, Microsoft has stated that there are 600 million computers running Windows 7 or 8, and they hope to convert most of them to Windows 10. However, they have not announced any imminent ending for Windows 7 support, so no one will be compelled to upgrade based on that.
Supposedly you can run Windows 10 on computers that are about 3 years old and are currently running Windows 7, though there may be some features that don’t work or are not available. In theory, you could upgrade the software without refreshing hardware clients, which is the route many companies will try first. Before making the switch you’ll need to test out your enterprise applications to ensure they run properly on Windows 10, which will take some time and limit the roll out of Windows 10 for a while.
The OEMs are, of course, hoping that everyone wants Windows 10 on a new machine that enables the user to take full advantage of the OS. The reviews of Windows 10 have so far been largely positive for ease of use, security, and enterprise management capabilities. It is also more seamless across Windows mobile and tablet.
What does that mean for IT asset managers? For many enterprises, nothing will change immediately. However, over the next 12 months, new hardware and Windows 10 may be part of the plan, particularly if your PCs, laptops and notebooks were deployed in 2012 or earlier. Software Asset Managers (SAMs) and Hardware Asset Managers (HAMs) could be very busy over the next year or two just with this transition.
From an asset disposition and value recovery perspective, a mass migration to new hardware typically means that prices for used machines will drop. So if you expect to do a desktop or laptop refresh – with or without Windows 10 – don’t accumulate the decommissioned devices for very long. Work with your ITAD partner to get them collected and refurbished so you can maximize the value you receive.
To learn more about current resale values and best practices on IT Asset Disposition, contact an ITAD expert now!
