One of the best tips for network asset management is to create an Information Technology (IT) position responsible for tracking all pieces of hardware and updating software as necessary. Many IT professionals responsible for asset management use software that enables them to easily record and access information regarding software and hardware that assist in increasing business productivity. This software should be used to reduce the number of instances of human error that result in misplaced equipment and malfunctioning network components. Network asset management software is often most effective when it is implemented cautiously and when all relevant employees are properly trained and assessed before using it.
Computers, servers, printers, and software are examples of network assets. Many network asset management experts believe that business managers should make IT departments responsible for tracking hardware and software. Professionals in these departments are often the most knowledgeable of network assets and therefore may be most capable of inspecting components, scheduling repairs, and devising plans for optimizing performance.
By making network asset management a primary responsibility of a specific IT professional or team, a business manager can centralize all asset management activities. This can allow for the creation of a central database in which there is consistency among asset files. For example, each asset file might contain notation written in a similar style that can provide essential information to users about its acquisition, maintenance, or usage. An IT professional also can assign each piece of equipment an ID number for ease of reference.
Another great tip for network asset management is to use software that can provide IT managers a more cost-effective method for retrieving and updating information related to network components. Most software requires the use of tracking devices such as barcodes and barcode scanners. A user can scan a barcode attached to a piece of hardware in order to bring up a corresponding file on a workstation monitor. Software also can provide users easy access to inventory history, including receiving and inspection dates.
IT professionals are often responsible for keeping up with current trends in asset management technology. As a result, an IT professional may need to implement new network asset management systems from time to time. It can be a good idea to slowly implement a new system. A professional might begin by implementing a system in one department. He or she can then optimize the system so that by the time it is expanded for use in other parts of the organization, it is highly efficient.
Another benefit of carefully implementing an asset management system is that it can give employees time to learn new technology and procedures. Many asset managers choose to train employees prior to full implementation. Then they can assess all IT employees to determine who has mastered the system and who needs further instruction.