Oulu Universities in Uleåborg, with over 25,000 students, realized that the old leasing model for IT equipment no longer met their needs. The time windows were too tight and the administration too demanding. The solution? A new approach – and a partnership with Inrego.
Oulu University and Oulu University of Applied Sciences are leading academic institutions in northern Finland, offering diverse and high-quality education while driving both regional and international development. They operate within a multidisciplinary and international higher education environment, with a strong focus on low carbon emissions, digital solutions, and business development. Together, they have around 25,000 students and form a powerful knowledge hub that promotes regional growth, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development – in close cooperation with businesses and research institutions.
A flexible setup for thousands of devices
Previously, the universities used leasing models for their IT purchases. But the sheer volume of equipment and strict return deadlines became a challenge. Devices had to be replaced and collected every quarter by a fixed date. “We wanted to maintain a regular replacement cycle, but also gain more control over the timing. Now we purchase the equipment instead and tailor the replacement cycle to fit our organization,” says Jori Löytynoja, IT Service Manager.
Once devices are decommissioned, they’re collected in a central location, and then a pickup is scheduled with Inrego. “Working with Inrego is flexible and quick – when we notify them that we have equipment ready, packaging materials and pickup are arranged within a few days,” says Jori, adding: “Before we started working with Inrego, we compared different options and considered handling and selling the equipment ourselves. But we quickly realized we simply didn’t have the resources.”
By letting Inrego handle the process, the organization saves both time and internal resources.
100% reuse so far
Oulu Universities actively integrate sustainability into their education, research, and internal operations. The IT department is committed to reusing as many devices as possible. “We try to avoid generating e-waste and aim to find second-life uses for as much as we can,” Jori explains.
The IT department is well-positioned to maximize the benefits of circular models and their positive effects. Inrego’s Key Account Manager, Jaakko Komulainen, is pleased to share that 100% of the equipment from the universities has been successfully reused to date. Inrego also provides an annual certificate outlining the climate savings achieved – something the universities actively use in their own sustainability reporting.
Communication at its best
Jori is very satisfied with the collaboration. “Communication is excellent – everything is addressed clearly and directly, and I really appreciate that,” he says. Flexibility, reliability, and responsibility are values that clearly define Inrego’s services. Jori emphasizes the importance of knowing your partner – and knowing how the equipment is handled and where it is resold.
Looking ahead – even more reuse
Oulu Universities aim to expand reuse efforts even further in the future. “We’re working towards a comprehensive and cost-effective reuse model – including AV equipment and projectors. There are still many devices without a second-life solution, and that’s something we need to focus on going forward,” Jori concludes.
Want to know more about our flexible solutions and how we can help your organization reuse IT? Don’t hesitate to get in touch!
