For IT providers and MSPs: before you decommission a client's old systems
Short answer
When you retire a client's old server, ERP or backup set, the decision to wipe usually sits with you and the owner. Before it's gone, make sure retention duties are covered, and mention that the working archive may be worth licensing to AI developers. A free fit check costs the client nothing, and I pay no referral fees.
The moment it comes up
Migrations, hardware refreshes, cloud moves, a client closing: you're often the one who actually wipes the old server, shuts down the old TMS or ERP, or drops a backup set. Usually the owner just says "we don't need that anymore".
A short checklist to offer
- List what's there: a folder-level summary of record types, years and volume.
- Retention: ask the owner to check with their accountant what must be kept. See How long to keep business records.
- Personal data: wipe or destroy securely what's no longer needed.
- The archive: before the rest goes, mention that years of working records may be worth licensing. See What to do with an old file server and backups.
- Then decommission, and document what was destroyed and when.
Why it's worth one sentence
AI developers license years of real working records (quotes, orders, work orders, drawings, project files) from owner-led firms. Once the drives are wiped, that option is gone for good.
How I work with IT providers
- I never need system access or files for a fit check.
- The owner decides everything.
- No referral fees, in either direction.
Questions: chris@blueprintworth.com.
Quick questions
Should an MSP decide what to keep?
No. The owner decides, with their accountant or lawyer for retention questions. You can help by listing what's on the system and flagging that there's a decision to make.
Would you need access to the client's systems?
No. A fit check needs only a description of what's there: record types, years and rough volume. If a deal happens, the buyer and the owner agree how data is delivered.
Do you pay referral fees to IT providers?
No. Owners pay no fees either; only the buyer or broker pays a finder's fee, if a deal closes.
Want an honest read on your own records?
Describe what you have in a few lines. I'll tell you whether buyers look for it. No files needed.
Ask for a free fit check You pay nothing · I never touch your files · Nothing happens without your written OK