When is a Computer Outdated?

How old is too old?when it comes to PCs??

Longevity isn't a concept we often apply to our personal digital devices. The allure of the latest iPhone, laptops or other technology tempts us to spend the money and upgrade frequently. Yet, when it comes to our work devices, the "if it's not broke, don't fix it" philosophy seems to be the common rule, leading us to stick with outdated technology for longer than recommended. While most business owners want to stretch their asset dollars as far as possible, waiting until your computers are outdated can mean decreased productivity and increased downtime and repairs.

The devices your employees use for work play a crucial role in your overall security, making it important to establish a proper refresh cycle. Determining the ideal upgrade schedule for business computers can be challenging, but doing so will help prevent the serious problems that arise when you wait too long to refresh and allow you to proactively plan replacements that work with your budget.

What's a good replacement cycle for business devices??

Today's computers run at peak for roughly 3-5 years, though most IT pros say it's closer to 3 years. A "wait till it dies" mentality can be costly when applied to the devices your employees use daily – financially and even from an employee morale standpoint. Frustrating tools can quickly create a frustrated workforce.?

A study from Microsoft found that employees spend, on average, a full day's worth of time per year waiting for old computers to boot up. Their study also found that a PC beyond year four:?

• Runs slower and struggles to run multiple applications at once
• Consumes more power and has a shorter battery life?
• Is 2.7x more likely to require repair than in year three?
• Decreases user productivity by 112 hours per year (nearly three weeks!)?
• Costs a company an average of $2,636 per year per device?

Further, these aging computers have twice the downtime and?are?three times more susceptible to security breaches and data loss. This translates to a significant upswing in the cost of ownership, making it more cost-effective to replace two or more PCs than to keep an old PC operational for more than four years.?

How do you spend your tech budget wisely??

We've all been there—holding onto a car that’s clearly seen better days, pouring money into endless repairs instead of making the leap to a new one. Why do we do this? Often, it’s the daunting thought of monthly car payments or the upfront cost of a new vehicle that keeps us clinging to the old clunker, even when it makes financial sense to upgrade.

Now, let’s shift that scenario to the workplace. You might not even realize it, but a similar “make it last longer” mindset could be quietly costing your business a fortune, especially when it comes to outdated computers. While you may think you’re saving money by prolonging their use, those old devices can drain resources, efficiency, and ultimately, your bottom line.

Instead of waiting for your tech to fail, consider a proactive approach. Keep a detailed log of all your devices, noting their age and performance. This way, you can plan for gradual refreshes over the next few years, allowing your budget to stretch and making the transition smoother. Investing in new devices isn’t just a cost—it's a commitment to enhancing productivity and fostering a more effective work environment.

Plan a computer refresh now.??

If you haven't considered the age of your devices before or it's suddenly dawning on you just how outdated your environment might be, don’t wait any longer. Upgrading your technology doesn’t just enhance productivity; it also reinforces your company’s security and efficiency. By planning a refresh now, you can avoid the pitfalls of waiting too long and the associated costs that come with outdated equipment.

Take the proactive step of assessing your current assets and creating a timeline for upgrading. Think of it as a strategic investment in your team’s performance and an essential move towards safeguarding your data. Remember, maintaining a modern and efficient tech environment translates to happier employees and a more robust bottom line.

Ready to make a move? We’re here to guide you through this process and help you find the right solutions that align with your budget and business goals. Let’s chat and work together to ensure your technology meets your current needs and paves the way for future success.