Top 5 Tips for Technology Purchasing

1. Standardize on one brand of computer

Buying from just one manufacturer like Dell, greatly decreases the total cost of ownership by allowing for more streamlined support, less inter-office computer envy, higher levels of reliability.

2. Standardize on one or two models of network printer

If you have only one model of black and white and one model of color printers in your office you only need toner for that one model. Also from an IT perspective its easier to maintain and give access to.

3. Upgrade your computers every 3 years.

It may sound like a lot, but our experience shows that a 3 year refresh cycle on computers offers the best combination of performance and capability and reliability. The older the machine the more it costs to maintain.

4. Plan for 100%-150% growth in data storage needs.

Whenever a server purchase is made, be sure to account for at least 100%-150% growth in data storage needs. The average small business fills the hard drives of a server before that server is ready for retirement. With the 100%-150% guideline you should be able to make it through the 3 year life of the server. If your budget doesn’t allow for the purchase of all that disk space upfront then purchase a system with the ability to add more storage later without buying a whole new server.

5. Stay current on licensing

Software licensing usually costs as much as a server, but its usually neglected across the overall organization. Staying current with licensing as you grow your business will help keep you in legal compliance and help you absorb the costs at the appropriate time, not just when the Business Software Alliance calls to do an audit.