But I want a new cell phone

This defense has been tried again and again in the IT world. The question is posed by the IT professional:

“Why would you like a new cell phone?”

The answer from the end-user is generally something along the lines of:

“Because I do.”

This is never a good answer. See no matter how high up you are in a company, justification must be made for each and every purchase. I love to order the latest and greatest laptop, iPhone, projector or whacked out spam fighting appliance but without justification it’s only a cost — not an advantage for the company. This carries through directly to your cell phone as well. While you may want the new Apple phone, Palm OS (not sure why) or, gasp, Windows Mobile smart phone but if it doesn’t help the company you just won’t get it.

Now don’t get me wrong. There are many times when the newest Blackberry is important to your job function or department but we just need a reason why. Usually us IT folk have a process for approvals or justification but we just need to follow that process before you can get the device. Just remember, it’s not about you. It’s about me — I mean the company — and me. Just fill out the proper paperwork.