Policies regarding user-damaged hardware/incentives to take care of it?
Any suggestions on policies in terms of encouraging employees to take good care of their hardware, ranging from charging them for lost, broken or stolen company goods to rewarding well-maintained hardware or reduced helpdesk tickets?
Apple's recently been accused of voiding warranties for cigarette smoke, and I'm curious if any other IT departments have gone that far. Software/Hardware used:
ASKED:
November 23, 2009 7:43 PM
UPDATED:
November 30, 2009 8:07 PM
Answer Wiki:
I was a contractor for ATT in Atlanta.
We were given a laptop, docking station, and mouse.
We were completely responsible for the physical possesion.
If we left it at work and someone stole it, we were still responsible.
------------
We have a clear cut policy in place. The owner is supposed to take care of the material in his/her custody. Besides we provide them with support team, hardware warranties/ AMC and insurance. Too much of lecturing on the subject takes the whole matter in some other direction. It is done more in “demonstrate” rather than “preach” manner.
To see all answers submitted to the Answer Wiki: View Answer History.
I think you should develop a disposition report for any piece of equipment issued. Using this form you would be able to collect the equipment from employees who were leaving and be able to document the condition of each piece upon collection and reissue. This would allow for the company to adequately account for equipment which becomes antiquated, broken through daily use, or even hold the user accountable for improper use.
This is the method we used when I was a telecommunications installer and seemed to keep people on point without victimizing employees.
I agree with the other guys – tell employees it’s their responsibility, have them sign off/out the equipment, and hold them accountable if necessary.