Even small businesses need computers, as well as software and possibly networking. However, most don’t have a computer technician on the payroll. If you are one of the estimated 551,000 new small businesses in this country, you may be looking for a cost effective way to maintain and occasionally enhance your technology.
When looking for computer support services you will find both "time and material" services and monthly support packages. With time and materials, a service provider will charge you an hourly rate for routine maintenance and repair requests in addition to any hardware or software that needed to be purchased to resolve the matter. If you have a fair amount of hardware and software you might be able to estimate a number of service hours to be needed. Consider a monthly service package offering where a fixed fee will guarantee a certain amount of support hours, including maintenance, and a technician who will get to know your needs well.
If you’re just getting your feet wet and aren’t sure which option is better for you, some companies like E-Integration, Inc. (www.e-integration.net) offer both so you can start off with time and material and eventually decide on a monthly package.
If you are pretty computer savvy and want to try to handle it yourself you can look into a telephone support service. An Internet search for "computer support" supplies lists many including GE Service Protection Plus (www.gehelpdesk.com). For a fixed monthly fee GE states that technicians will be available via phone or email to help you with your PC problems. Keep in mind they may be limited when assisting with laptops, software or networking.
Investing in computers for your business can be costly, but important. You can be certain that ensuring the upkeep and maintenance is equally important. Decide which option is right for you at present because as your business grows, your computer needs will too.