For some companies it may make sense to dedicate internal resources to IT and have your own computer repair, decommissioning, and hardware specialists on site. For others, however, especially as much of the workforce remains at least partially remote, the best solution is to contract with a third-party computer repair expert to provide IT and device hardware support. As just that kind of expert service, we at ComputerCare feel qualified to help you look for the IT support company that best fits your company’s needs in these strange times.
On-site vs. Off-site Support
Probably the first question we advise you to answer is whether your business model would be best served by keeping an IT expert in house or by contracting with an external service that handles repairs, upgrades, etc., in their own location. Some factors to consider include your business footprint. IT work takes space, especially at high volumes, and you may not have the resources to store the parts, pieces, equipment, and spare devices needed to make the magic happen. On the other hand, if you do have the space and a workforce heavily reliant on their devices, the quick turnaround of having someone on-site can make all the difference in the world. At ComputerCare we offer both models of support, but not all computer repair companies do, so this is definitely a factor to consider when contracting with a third-party service.
Remote vs. Local Support
If you’re not quite sure how to provide IT and hardware support to employees who may now work entirely from home, this is definitely an issue to bring up with potential contractors. Do you want your employees to drive into the office every time they need to drop off a work device for repairs and pick up a spare model? If not, does that mean you have to ship computers back and forth or hire a delivery person to handle these issues? Talk to your computer repair service provider about customizing your support services. From our own experience, we can assure you that we understand and respond to your struggles as a business owner. That’s why we have lately developed some new services, including storage and maintenance of spare devices, and free home pick-up and delivery for our clients’ employees. Difficult times call for innovative solutions, so check with your prospects to see what they can do to streamline the repair process for you and your remote workforce.
The Importance of Trust
Perhaps more important than all of the above, though, is knowing you can trust your IT partner to provide high quality repairs and maintenance for your company devices. Is the company you’re considered qualified/authorized/certified to provide you the services you need? At ComputerCare, we’ve taken a lot of pride in becoming an Apple Authorized Service Provider and an HP Authorized Service Partner, working with Dell, Acer, and Toshiba to become authorized to repair their products, and even receiving a Premier Service Award from Lenovo. These are the kinds of qualifications you want to look for in a trustworthy IT support service. Since almost anyone can repair devices in their basement or garage, knowing that a business has made the effort to establish a reputation and relationship with tech companies can put your mind at ease when it comes to contracting with them for your hardware support needs.
These are strange times and needs of business owners are changing. It’s time to advocate for yourself and look for partners who can give you the solutions you require. And if you’re located in the Bay Area and Seattle, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us regarding our client support options. (We can also provide on-site services for large businesses in the US, Ireland, or Europe.)