FROM THE BLOG

We are most dependent and spend much of our time on our business computer. As such, we should ensure that our system is as efficient and reliable as possible. Plan for a business class computer to last about four years. Trying to extend the life of a heavily used system much past that will often cause frustrations with performance. Alternatively, technology evolves quickly, and it may be tempting to move to that sleek new laptop or flashy operating system that just came on the market. Often these yet-unproven systems have compatibility or stability issues that do not make them ready for business use. Admittedly, when deciding on a new computer it is a matter of finding that sweet spot where your business requirements, individual needs and preferences, and the right timing meet.

As follows are some key considerations when deciding on the right system to invest in:

• Budget: Be willing to invest in quality but focus on the “right fit” for your long-term needs. For business computers, it is best to start at the mid-range price point. An extra $200 for a better processor and a bit more RAM is a wise investment to ensure a longer, frustration-free, computer life. There is also such a thing as too much power. Top-tier systems, designed for gaming or software development, offer great specs, but even a tech-heavy business user would leave most of that excess resource unused.
• Laptop or Desktop: Business laptops have gone up in processing power and down in price. Even if mobility is not a key requirement now, a laptop offers flexibility for present and future unexpected needs. With the use of a modern docking station, which connects you to full-size monitors and other peripherals, there is no compromise to power or comfort.
• Extend the Warranty – a bit: When it comes to technology, the only thing you can count on is that technology breaks. Most computer manufacturer warranties cover 1-year. Extending that to 3 years is usually a minor investment (an additional 10%) and worth the peace of mind, especially for a business system. It is best to extend the warranty directly with the manufacturer rather than a third party. Be wary of warranties that go past 3 years as they often are not only pricy but have a range of exclusions.
• Buy direct from the manufacturer (online) or reputable business technology store (in-store): Buying direct from a manufacturer (Dell, HP, Microsoft, Apple, etc.) may not always be the cheapest option, but it offers the most choice and opportunities for customization. Most importantly buying direct makes it easier to deal with any issues that may necessitate a return, swap, or warranty claim. Buying from a reputable storefront, such as Best Buy, Staples, or Office Depot, offers less choice, but provides the uniquely valuable opportunity to get hands-on with a computer. Buying from a store-front also makes dealing with issues and returns most convenient.
• Hands-on test drive: Just like a test drive of a potential new car to get a sense of its handling, comfort, and overall look and feel, it is a good idea to get hands-on with a potential new computer. This is especially important when buying a laptop. Weight, durability, keyboard comfort, screen size or resolution, and overall comfort are factors that are hard to assess via pictures on a web page, but also things that significantly affect your experience with a new system. Just like we rely on professional financial advisors to provide guidance on suitable investments for retirement, turn to available technology experts (your business tech department, sales consultant at a local reputable store, or even tech-savvy family/friend) to provide personalized guidance on what is the “right fit” for your computer investment.

Your Tech Buddy,

Marco Galvan
Director of IT

Posted by Prospera Financial