UC Hardware-as-a-Service: Knowing Your Options: Page 3 of 3

Bottom Line

• Consider accounting implications — Keep in mind the accounting rule that impacts how some organizations view a cost as OPEX or CAPEX. For example, a takeaway may be that your HaaS agreement may need to avoid pay-in-full options for your organization to acknowledge the OPEX benefits. As a best practice, stay aligned with two accounting standards bodies — the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) and the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).
• Look for online tools that enhance the offer — For large enterprises, one value is to alleviate IT teams from low-ROI tasks like device lifecycle management. This feature can and should be incorporated into the vendor's online device management tools, as well. From the portal, for example, you should be able to track assets, serial numbers, and status of services contracts in an easy-to-use interface.
• Align your device refresh strategy with contract renewals — Short contract terms may seem of value, but if your natural lifecycle for conference room devices is three or four years, align your HaaS program accordingly.