How to select an Integrator, Consulting
Firm, VAR or Computer Retailer?
As you work to establish a relationship with an information
technology supplier, what are the major factors to consider?
Do they adhere to a business code of ethics? Are
their business practices on returns, training, set-up
and repair plainly stated? Are there any guarantees
on repair times? Are loaners available during repairs?
Does the reseller have diagnostic and service technicians
on staff or are systems sent out for repairs? Is service
offered at your site? Can they provide customer references
with businesses similar to your business?
What are their service offerings? Do they offer
training courses, telephone support, on-site support
and repair services?
Is their staff knowledgeable about your needs?
Does their staff have any particular knowledge about
your type of business? Do they have other clients
in your business area you can talk to? Do they have
any particular experience with your applications?
Systems needs are frequently very different in accounting,
graphics intensive applications, and databases.
Does the company have certified professionals? Many
leading vendors have certification programs where
professionals can take continuing education courses
and examinations to prove their knowledge about technologies,
software or installations.
Is your reseller “manufacturer authorized”?
This can be a good indicator of the training and on-going
commitment to supporting particular product lines.
How much support will you need or do you expect?
(Pre-sales consulting, installation, phone support,
on-site training, off-site training, disaster recovery,
communications networking, custom development, repairs,
etc.?)
Does the VAR or retailer have the staff and capability
to serve you in a timely fashion?
Service, Service, and Knowledgeable
Service
And the question is: what will be the most important
aspect of where you buy information technology? Technology
has become the critical success factor for virtually
all businesses. Choosing the right dealer can provide
an immediate competitive or financial advantage.
