The traditional model of device procurement and management is showing its age. We're exploring how Device-as-a-Service (DaaS) and Windows Autopilot can simplify global device delivery—without owning inventory and relying on build-to-order machines. If there was globally available, enterprise-grade hardware, consistent and reliably available... are you interested to drop "build-to-order" and enjoy "smart buy" options enabled with zero-touch provisioning ?

DaaS economics do not really stack up for technical businesses unless there is significant regular fluctuation in the need for device numbers. However, for businesses with a low traditional onsite IT footprint then yes it can be a good consideration. Data security assurance is though a major consideration for returned/damaged devices.

just to extend the thoughts:

goals:
* Eliminate the need for upfront hardware purchases and customer-reserved stock
* still deliver localized devices (keyboard, power plug) to employees’ homes or offices (in days, not weeks)
* Offer full lifecycle services: kitting, deployment, warranty handling, refurbishment, and sustainable end-of-life management
* Seamlessly reallocate assets as part of the life-cycle based; leverage performance metrics for decisions

how to achieve:
* Provide a consistent, enterprise-grade hardware standard globally
* Enabled by zero-touch provisioning via Autopilot, with no internal imaging or warehousing

We are excited this vision is achievable—without the need for internal inventory or complex logistics. 
OEMs or VARs can assign devices to our Autopilot tenant at the point of shipment, we can deliver a ready-to-work experience to any employee, anywhere.

We’re curious to hear from the community:
Are you interested in dropping your build-to-order practice and switch to smart-buy options?

Whats holding us back today: global availability of the same device via smart-buy; consistency of configurations of smart-buy options during product lifecycle; 'corporate-ready' image; autopilot tagging at shipment

Let's see if we can drive the demand together!