Sourcing accessories
Now, it’s time to think about accessories. Devices are useless without chargers and other accessories.
By the end of this step, you’ll have the information needed to decide which of these three options you want to take:
- Asking donors to donate accessories with their devices
- Procuring new accessories at a cost
- Taking a mixed approach
Key insights
-
Accessories
There are several common accessories, but they differ between makes and models. It’s vital that you have the right accessories for each device. Common accessories include:
- Chargers
- USB connectors
- Mice (if devices need them)
- Stylus pens (needed for some tablets)
- Network connectivity accessories (e.g. dongles, we’ll tell you more about how these can be reused later)
Ensuring recipients’ needs are met
Option 1. Mandatory donation with the device
Only accepting devices when accompanied by the right accessories will lower your costs but can reduce the number of donations you receive.
Pros
- Reduces the cost of supplying accessories
- Saves time as devices and accessories will already be paired
Cons
- Is likely to reduce the number of donations you receive
Option 2. Procuring from suppliers
Accepting donations without accessories may encourage generosity, but you’ll need to purchase any that are needed from a partner organisation. Alternatively, you can ask a telco or an IT firm to support you by providing accessories.
One of our partner schemes was supported by a telco. It funded the cost of new chargers.
Pros
- You are likely to get more donations
Cons
- The cost (unless you get a partner on board)
Option 3. A mixed approach
The best solution is often to encourage donors to include accessories, if they have them, but offer to accept donations without accessories too. This cuts the costs of supplying accessories, but you’ll still need some funding as you’ll need to replace missing items.
One of our partner schemes has had success by taking a mix and match approach.
Pros
- Reduces costs whilst maximising donation numbers
Cons
- Will incur some costs (unless you get a partner on board)
Things to think about
-
Cost
You will need to cover any additional costs, unless you can find another organisation who will support you.
-
Maximising donation numbers
Donors may not know where their accessories are, or they may be using them with their new device. Making accessories mandatory may reduce the number of donations you receive.
-
Accessory limitations
Some accessories can be used across multiple models, e.g. iPhone leads, but not with other makes. You should make sure that chargers are licensed products produced by the device’s manufacturer. Do not buy accessories from non-reputable sources as these can be dangerous.
