The social networking company Facebook CIO Tim Campos designed a series of custom-made vending machines that dispense computer accessories instead of snacks and sodas to help employees who need replacement keyboards and power cords quickly and more efficiently. While getting power cords and replacement keyboards to employees who need them sounds easy enough, at many companies the process requires filling out order forms that can take IT departments days to fulfill.
In the past companies have relied on vending cabinets & supply clerks to fill out requisition forms for equipment needed for each employee. This process usually takes several days when you take in to consideration the time it takes to get equipment shipped to the business and distributed to the employee. By having the supplies organized in a vending machine, small electronics needs can be tracked and dealt with in a more effective manner. The new vending machine requires employees to swipe their badge before making a selection. That means every power cord, keyboard, screen wipe, or any other electronic device is accounted for. Employees can swipe their badge, key in their selection and get the accessories they need without contacting the IT department. This typically results in a 35% management cost reduction.