Signs you Need a New Computer Technician
Posted by Dana Camp on February 3, 2009 in Uncategorized
Almost any small business today relies on a computer to keep them up and running. Even the smallest part time home business should use a computer to manage finances, if not anything else. Relying on a computer setup comes naturally for any small business.
Just like an entrepreneur needs a lawyer, a banker, and an accountant, he should also seek the services of a strong IT consultant. Having the local random geek or geek service (with a fleet of similar vehicles driven by twenty-something’s) is a kin to borrowing startup money from your parents. it will help out in some cases, but for the heavy hitting you need to go to the bank — or get a professional.
Why? Take a look at the following signs.
1.) Your technician has no understanding, and seeks to gain no understanding about your business.
In order to make sure technology works effectively for you, your technician should have a firm understanding of exactly what you and your team does. This will allow him to better implement solutions to make your process more efficient, profitable and/or reliable. This also lets him seek out new technology to continue the process.
2.) Your technician does not stay informed about current events, technological or otherwise.
Information technology, is greatly expanded by advances in science and technology, and equally refined by government law and regulation. ‘Net Neutrality greatly effects the Internet and telecommunications as a whole, and HIPAA has changed the ways many medical providers and insurance carriers do business. An informed technician can do more to keep you prepared for any future changes.
3.) Your technician does not offer an emergency response
This is elementary for many bigger offices, in a small office it goes double. Smaller offices often don’t have a spare computer, or printer. Imagine having the computer down when it’s needed for building a quote, or worse yet, writing checks. Just imagine how much stress it would add, and now pretend it’s tax season. Having emergency response will remove these stressors. and even if it’s not a quick fix, you will be able to make an informed decision.
4.) You do not know where your CDs are (reinstallation media)
In most small to mid size companies, computers will come with an install disk for your Operating system, such as Windows, Mac OS or Linux. Often computers will ship with drivers as well. Having these handy along with your Intuit Quickbooks, Microsoft Office and/or other software CDs can save you time if the computer prompts you for these discs. Also, if you need to rebuild a computer, and you need to reload software, you can give the package to your tech. Be wary of a computer technician who will not give you these CD’s, or who claims that he doesn’t have such discs to give you. If you’re paying for software, you should have the ability to reinstall software.
5.) The technician won’t give you passwords for accounts on your computers.
Would you give your plumber your only set of keys to your house? Your technician has free reign to do whatever he wants with your system if this is the case. You should be able to have complete access to your systems in the event you need it.
6.) Your technician insists on using big words.
Your technician is hired to help you understand and use your technology better. If his response to a question just does more to confuse you, he may just be looking out for job security. A good technician should be able to judge your understanding and speak about the problem on your level, whether it’s novice or advanced.
7.) Your technician is NOT available during business hours.
Fly by night businesses often come and go, Your tech might be good in many other regards, but not having a tech who can answer concerns from your staff adds another responsibility to you, the entrepreneur. You will have to call and arrange with him after hours, and then meet him at the office then. Furthermore, how well can he understand your business if he can’t see it in operation (like point 1). Finally, it comes down to resources, many part time ventures are quickly lowered in priority in the event of other obligations and opportunities.
8.) Your technician lacks normal business etiquette.
This point should go without saying. A technician first and foremost should be a professional - He should be confident in his work and be personally vested in his craftsmanship. As an entrepreneur, use that instinct which you have developed to see if he makes the cut.
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