Laptops are usually a long-term investment. The average laptop lasts 4 to 5 years. The global laptop market is projected to reach USD 186.3 billion in 2025 and USD 208.5 billion by 2028. Approximately 189.9 billion laptop units will be sold by 2024, which may reach 207.1 million units by 2028. However, laptops are relatively easy to conceal, steal, and misplace, so companies must invest in laptop lockers.
However, companies must consider several things while installing laptop lockers. They need to install the right lockers depending on the type of business, office premises, security concerns, and users. Doing so will improve security and ensure employees’ peace of mind.
In this day and age, individuals need convenience, which includes storage lockers with charging capabilities. Also, specialized laptop lockers ensure compliance with health and safety for many companies. This blog will focus on why businesses must invest in laptop lockers. Without further ado, let’s get straight into it.
10 Key Considerations for Companies Investing in Laptop Lockers
A laptop is stolen every 53 seconds, and 97% of laptops are never recovered. Safety is one of the biggest reasons why companies install laptop lockers. Below are 10 things companies must consider before investing in laptop lockers.
1. Security
Security should be the top priority for companies when choosing laptop lockers. Business owners must look for lockers with innovative security features like locking mechanisms, materials, and anti-theft design. Whether it’s traditional key locks, combination locks, or electronic locking mechanisms, laptop lockers must be difficult to tamper with and hack.
Lockers made from high-quality and durable materials like stainless steel or wrought iron last for a long and prevent unauthorized access. Additionally, lockers with no exposed hinges or those fixed to the wall are less vulnerable to theft.
2. Size and Capacity
Choosing the right-sized lockers with the appropriate storage capacity makes a huge difference. Business owners must customise laptop lockers depending on the business and laptop size. Not all laptops are of the standard dimension, with a screen of 15.6 inches and a weight of 2.3 kg. Gaming and other large laptops come in bigger screen sizes and weigh as much as 3.6 kg. Laptop lockers must be big enough to accommodate the larger models.
Many students and employees may also require additional locker space to store books, smartphones, tablets, mobile chargers, and other items. Businesses with expanding needs should consider investing in laptop lockers with modular designs or expansion capabilities.
3. Accessibility
Besides security, easy accessibility is crucial for employees and students. Many factors affect locker accessibility, such as lock type. Traditional lockers have regular locks that may take time to open.
On the other hand, digital and biometric locks open with fingerprints and codes. Marking lockers with the proper labels or numbers also improves accessibility. Most importantly, laptop lockers with simple and practical designs enable easy access and storage.
4. Material Quality
Material quality also plays a vital role in the longevity of laptop lockers. Lockers made of plastic and other non-metal materials usually cannot withstand much wear and tear. Establishments in high-humidity environments must choose lockers with rust-resistant paint or coating to prevent degradation. Not all individuals use lockers with care.
Some may slam laptop lockers or use them roughly. Hence, laptop lockers must be scratch—and damage-resistant, which means fewer repairs and less maintenance.
5. Cost
Most companies consider lockers non-profitable investments. Hence, they choose the cheapest option available. This approach can be disastrous because locker wear and tear, repairs, and damage will require the purchase of new lockers over the years. High-quality lockers are generally more expensive but offer greater durability and security, thereby being more cost-effective.
Similarly, laptop lockers with customization options can be costlier, but they have attractive features while providing better functionality.
6. Locking System Integration
How well do laptop lockers integrate with the business’s security infrastructure? Integrating electronic and digital lockers with security systems is relatively more straightforward. For example, some laptop lockers have features that facilitate remote control and monitoring through an integrated system.
Robust integration of lockers with smart security systems also ensures tracking of access attempts. In this way, the management can hold employees accountable for the information they use and access.
7. Aesthetics
Locker durability and accessibility are essential, as are aesthetics. Consider how the lockers would fit into your overall office environment. From the colours to the design, laptop lockers must complement your overall aesthetics. The colours, finish and design should match the surroundings.
Companies should install laptop lockers in the right places depending on their business type. For example, customer-facing businesses must choose to install lockers in interior areas. The main objective of laptop lockers is to provide adequate storage space and not add to the clutter. Lastly, lockers that can be operated with minimal noise and distraction should be installed to avoid commotion.
8. Sustainability
Sustainability is the latest buzzword. Environmentally conscious customers nowadays purchase or do business with companies that practice sustainability. Using lockers made of recyclable or sustainable materials reduces a company’s carbon footprint and improves its reputation. Companies must also check if the lockers are energy-efficient.
However, sustainability must not come at the cost of durability. It is crucial to strike a balance and invest in lockers, prioritizing durability, functionality, and sustainability.
9. Maintenance
Even durable laptop lockers may struggle to withstand the test of time. So, business owners must check with the locker provider to see if he offers maintenance and customer support. The key things to consider include the warranty period, customer support, and maintenance services.
Ideally, the locker’s warranty must cover defects and non-working parts for a particular duration. The locker companies must also provide customer support whenever necessary. If companies have to run from pillar to post for customer service, it ruins their experiences. Proper customer service ensures customers can address pressing issues. Many locker providers also offer periodic maintenance and repairs as a part of their service package.
10. Trends
Trends change over time, and the same holds for laptop lockers. Durability is essential, but if the lockers look fashioned and out of place, they may not fit into the office ambience. For instance, modern interiors would not complement locker designs from the late 90s or early 2000s. Offices must consider the latest trends when purchasing lockers without compromising functionality, durability, and security.
Final Verdict
Laptop lockers are an excellent investment for businesses because they protect employee belongings and ensure a positive working environment. However, companies must be mindful while investing in laptop lockers. Even though laptop lockers may not be a significant investment, the wrong decision can significantly impact business operations.
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