Reconditioning of Computers: Identifying Contextual and Design Barriers

Fast technological development and short innovation cycles has resulted in shorter life spans for certain consumer electronics. Reconditioning is proposed as one of the strategies to close the loops in the circular economy and increase the lifespan of products and components. The paper therefore examined contextual and design barriers for reconditioning of computers (laptops and desktops), and based on the barriers, design for reconditioning recommendations were made. The study was based on a single case study of a reconditioning company and the main method applied to collect information were qualitative research interviews.

The case study of the contextual barriers indicated that trust from the buyer and the seller of the used computers were important for a viable business. If trust was not in place, it could be a potential barrier. Furthermore, economy obsolescence and a lack of influence on the design of the products, as a third party reconditioner, were identified as potential barriers to reconditioning. Finally, product diversity and low product quality were identified as barriers. Design barriers were identified within the following categories: durability, the first user, BIOS Password, easy disassembly, cleaning and spare parts. These barriers were reformulated into 21 design for reconditioning recommendations.