To ensure that SAP efficiently manages all company laptops/PCs through the entire lifecycle, SAP IT has implemented the SALM @ SAP project which provides one highly sustainable and lean process. The SALM @ SAP project comprises a number of separate projects that were started in 2009 and have evolved continually since then.
The SALM@SAP Process:
The employee purchases the laptop via a highly scalable, automated, and paperless ordering process via SAP's own online shop (SAP SRM). The SAP image is installed by the supplier so the PCs and notebooks can be delivered directly to SAP's different locations (route optimization). SAP works together with suppliers to further optimize logistics and packaging – e.g. transportation in flight boxes or bulk packaging to reduce packaging material is in planning stage.
The power consumption of the laptop is optimized by the installation of a power management software installed on every client by using a centralized solution that has comprehensive reporting features. In 2013, 3.54 gigawatt hours’ client energy were saved compared to 2011 by the implementation of the power management software and by the reduction of assets.
To reduce the total amount of assets per user, an internal asset management tool continues to help us by identifying unused and duplicate devices. A management approval process for additional devices is required which helps to limit the number of duplicate device requests. With our device management activities, we were able to reduce the number of clients (PCs/laptops) per head from 1,25 (Q1/2011) to 1,08 (Q4/2013).
The returned devices and peripherals are then reused within the company. With awareness campaigns like the internal "IT Recycling Days" we motivate employees to return unused devices to the IT department and to reuse devices instead of ordering new ones.
Broken or obsolete devices are handed over to certified suppliers and then sold or recycled in an environmentally friendly manner. Having one standard process worldwide enabled us to recycle 27 tons e-waste in a sustainable way in 2013 with a recovery rate of about 90% according to our recycling partner.
Last but not least: Distributed asset data is uploaded automatically into our sustainability performance management system and reviewed quarterly.
For the SALM @ SAP project, SAP has been recognized as a 2013 Computerworld Honors Laureate, this nomination recognizes organizations that have used information technology to promote and advance public welfare, benefit society and business and change the world for the better.
The SALM process @ SAP is part of the openSAP course: Sustainability and Business Innovation.
What are you doing to organize your asset lifecycle management more sustainable? I am happy to learn more about your projects and to receive your feedback.
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