Computer Disposal Policy

This policy outlines the conditions and process for disposing of computer-related equipment that has reached the end of its life-cycle, is damaged beyond repair or has become functionally obsolete.

All divisions and departments of the college are subject to the terms of this policy.

A department may want to dispose of computer-related equipment that is no longer useful for any of the following reasons:

• Cannot provide basic level of service
• Hardware is unused
• Equipment or software has reached the limit of its life cycle
• Equipment is damaged or broken
• Repairs would be excessively costly
• Replacement is in order per the Computer Workstation Policy

Computer-related equipment meeting any of the above criteria would be considered surplus. Departments having surplus equipment should not trickle-down, sell, recycle, or dispose of equipment without first contacting your departmental technician or calling the Service Desk (x6106) or send email to servicedesk@risd.edu.

Based on ITS' assessment, equipment will be categorized as follows:

1. Trickle-down
   Surplus computer equipment with useful life will be redistributed to a location within the college that can make use of the equipment. In this case, the computer will remain in RISD inventory and reallocated for use elsewhere on campus.
   
2. Campus Workstation Program Replacement
   If the equipment is end-of-lease, it will be returned to the leasing company as stated in the contract.
   
   
3. Disposal
   If it is determined that computer equipment cannot meet either of the above categories, the equipment will be handled in accordance with the Surplus or Obsolete Equipment Policy.

This policy was approved as of: 10/29/2015

This policy was last reviewed/modified on: 7/22/2020

Next scheduled review: 11/1/2023

Issuing Office

Information Technology Services

Responsible Officer

Chief Information Officer

Individuals/offices required for review and changes

Senior Vice President, Finance and Administration