When deciding whether to reuse technology and amortise it over two or more electoral events, the cost of maintaining and if necessary upgrading or enhancing that technology should be weighed against the cost of replacing it. The most economic course will depend on the particular type to technology being considered and the timeframes involved. When a decision has been taken to dispose of obsolete equipment, it may be possible to achieve some return on the investment made on that equipment by selling it. Technology that may be obsolete in one jurisdiction or industry may be still an improvement on technology in use elsewhere. While any returns to be gained are unlikely to be a significant offset on the original purchase price, there may still be value in selling obsolete equipment rather than simply destroying it or giving it away.
Some governments distribute obsolete equipment to other jurisdictions as a form of aid.
Other agencies under the same government umbrella may be happy to accept obsolete equipment. For example, schools may be interested in receiving obsolete personal computers for student use. If these options are not available or feasible, it may be practicable to sell obsolete equipment by tender or auction, or simply by setting a reasonable market price on the equipment and advertising it for sale.