Full-Support Information Technology Companies

Systems Integrators/Value Added Resellers

Large integrators provide comprehensive technical direction, support and service. These organizations’ services include:

• business and technical assessments to determine your needs and the best technology to meet them
• the ability to integrate multiple platforms
• Network, software, communications, hardware and peripheral installation
• development of custom software to fulfill needs not addressed by commercial products
• negotiating and purchasing systems components on behalf of clients

Most large systems integrators serve mid-to-large size businesses. Their services are comprehensive but the cost can eliminate small businesses as clients.

Value Added Resellers provide similar services to systems integrators but serve small to mid-size businesses. In most instances they resell hardware and equipment sold by manufacturers. While in many industries people think of resellers as dealing in used equipment, computer resellers are selling new equipment, assembled by others. Many resellers also assemble “white boxes”, which are their own brand of computers. The reseller is doing what the manufacturer or assembler does — buying best of breed components from computer chip, hard drive, modem, motherboard, network card and other manufacturers and then assembling and testing the system. It is important to right-size your integrator or VAR. It is almost always better to be a mid or large customer to a small supplier than a small customer to a large provider. Many smaller VARs are specialists in particular industries and as a result can cross over the technical/business needs bridge. Virtually all of these companies offer on-site support services.

Network Consulting and Network Integrators

These companies specialize in doing needs assessment, product and communications recommendations, and network installation. The focus of these companies is to enhance communications among systems, as well as share data, applications, and resources such as printers and e-mail. The network consultants and integrators generally do not get involved in applications beyond e-mail and web access. They provide access and interoperability between disparate platforms and systems such as NT, Windows, UNIX, LINUX and Apple. The major focus of these companies is to allow systems to “talk” to each other. They also provide comprehensive on-site, telephone, and dial-in support.

Independent Computer Retailers

These organizations resell hardware, software and peripherals and also help set up systems. They handle on-site or carry-in repairs past the manufacturer’s warranty, for any and all products they sell. Many also assemble their own “white boxes,” as mentioned in the value added reseller section. One of the greatest advantages a retailer can represent over on-line or catalog purchases is advice, training, and support. The retailer almost always has highly capable technical professionals who can help you right-size your system purchases. They can help you maximize the life of your system without overbuying. Most value added dealers have some store-front walk-in business but the majority of their clients and revenue come from small to mid-size businesses where they also provide on-site technical support. These retailers have professionals available who have the training and experience in technical business consulting, qualifying them to help make good purchase recommendations.