OUR
PROJECT
CYCLE.
We provide a comprehensive and sustainable end-to-end solution - with our partner Close the Gap. From collection and handling of computer hardware, to its distribution, maintenance and end-of-life recycling.
The process starts with the collection of the equipment at the donor company, the data erasure from the hard disks and the configuration according to the needs of the beneficiary. The devices are then ready for shipping, are packed and delivered to the carefully selected projects where the hardware is installed, maintained and integrated into wholistic training and education programmes. If there is a problem, local expert come to help and repair. At the of their second life, the devices are dismantled and recycled up to the highest environmental standards.
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More detail? Find below the step-by-step process, as provided by one of our key logistics partners, Close the Gap.
1. Collection at donor company
Our partners pick up used IT equipment from companies and organisations. The equipment is collected in a professional way and at no cost to the donor.
2. Refurbishment of ICT equipment
Once the equipment is collected, we work with professional refurbishment partners to start the refurbishing process. They arrange for the hard disks to be cleaned and the hardware to be checked and configured.
3. Project selection
We evaluate and select projects that focus on both on individuals and communities. The projects selected cover various fields, such as education, health, environment, microfinance, research, socio-cultural and good governance.
4. Transport equipment to project
The computers are shipped to the projects by air or sea transport.
5. Installation, maintenance
and trainings
We work through local service partners in several countries that facilitate the work with beneficiary organisations. They know and understand the local culture and challenges, have local project management expertise and ensure the sustainability of the projects. They are responsible for the preparation of the local infrastructure, distribution and transport of computers to the beneficiaries, installation and maintenance of ICT equipment, and training project managers, teachers and users.are shipped to the projects by air or sea transport.
6. Software & expertise
Projects can call upon supporting partners for expertise in the following fields: specific software, special hardware, capacity building, funding expertise and infrastructure.
7. Follow-up and evaluation
The quality of products and services is evaluated in order to improve future collaborations by means of a yearly survey of project partners.
8. Pick-up and recycling of end-of-life equipment
Whether reconditioned or not, ICT equipment can pose a serious environmental threat when it reaches its end-of-life. That’s why Close the Gap, through its partner WorldLoop, makes sure that the computers are disposed of in an environmentally responsible way when they are no longer useful.
THE PROJECT
IN A
NUTSHELL
