Finding a Reputable Computer Reseller

If you are in the market for a new computer, a carefully chosen reseller can help ensure that the computer system you purchase will serve both your current needs and projected future needs.

There are several types of computer resellers, including retailers, superstores, and mail-order companies systems integrators, network consulting organizations, value-added resellers, Web site retailers and value-added dealers. The services and support offered by each will vary.

When shopping for a reseller, be sure to record the salesperson's name and the date of your conversation in case a discrepancy arises later concerning the equipment and service you had expected to receive.

You will also want to consider the following:

• How long the company has been in business.
• References. Ask for a list of satisfied customers and contact the Better Business Bureau for a company report.
• Quality and level of service. Look for pre-sales support, implementation support, and post-sales support. Do the firm's stated services and specialties match your needs?
• Manufacturing authorizations. A manufacturer's authorization to distribute a product generally indicates a certain level of confidence in the reseller's reliability.
• Certification. A reseller who has certified computer service technicians on staff is demonstrating a commitment to computer service quality.
• Technical support. Will the reseller support the system with in-house personnel or outside sources, and what is the cost of that support? What is your recourse if there is a problem with the system or network?

Other areas to consider include the level of rapport, method of service, training options for the users of the new equipment, availability of extended warranties, and the reseller's participation or membership in industry associations.

Copyright 1995, Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc.
All rights reserved.