While it is possible to manage device inventory without a dedicated system, doing so can be cumbersome and error-prone, especially as organizations grow. Manual methods such as spreadsheets or basic databases lack real-time tracking and are susceptible to inaccuracies. These approaches often require significant administrative effort to maintain and do not integrate well with other IT functions like security or helpdesk. Without automated alerts and comprehensive reporting, organizations risk losing track of devices, missing updates, or violating compliance requirements. Hence, while feasible on a very small scale, managing device inventory without a system is generally inefficient and risky for modern businesses.

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