How to Find Computer and Technical Information for Your Small Business

These days, one of the most important questions facing small business owners is where to find reliable computer and technological support.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer And Network Support
• Computer Disks
• Computers

1. Define your specific computer and telecommunications needs.

2. Network with other small-business owners to find out where they got help, what it cost and whether they would recommend anyone for the task.

3. Determine your options in regard to purchasing a system. Will it make more financial sense to lease or buy a system?

4. Anticipate some of the technical problems you might encounter. For instance, if your business is deadline-oriented, how will a computer failure affect your ability to get out your product?

5. Do business with a company that can help solve glitches quickly and effectively. If you don't have an information systems manager on staff, you might want to do business with a company that has technicians on call around the clock.

6. Check the Yellow Pages' "computers" and "consultants" listings for experts in your area of concern. Call several of the firms listed and ask about areas of expertise, credentials, fees and availability.

7. Ask for references. Top-notch techies will provide the names and numbers of a few clients. Call them and inquire about the quality and cost of the services they received.

Tips & Warnings

• Word-of-mouth is probably the best way to find help for your computer or telecommunications problems. Chat with members of a trade group or other business association to which you belong. Different businesses have different needs.
• Call the U.S. Small Business Administration's SCORE program in your local area. SCORE consists of retired business execs who voluntarily advise business owners - free of charge - on a wide range of issues. Ask a SCORE volunteer to help you find the right technician or consultant for your needs.
• Before you start using a computer-repair service, ask what their response times are.
• If your computers run on the Microsoft Windows operating systems, you might want to work with someone who has received appropriate certification from Microsoft Corp.

on 11/22/2005 For more informal help on the computer, find a high school student and pay him or her for an hour or two of help. These kids know their stuff, and the only problem is getting them to slow down so that you can absorb all the info and techniques.