Table of Contents
Introduction
Whether you’re a personal or business computer user, choosing a mobile computer technician can make or break your experience when computer equipment goes wrong.
Make the right choice, and you could be back online within a matter of hours with minimal disruption. Choose incorrectly, and you’re likely to be telling a very different story.
At Buzz A Geek, we understand that there’s a lot to consider when choosing a computer technician. So that we can help you make the best decision for your computer repairs, here are our top tips for choosing a mobile computer technician who will provide the best service.
Check out reviews and recommendations
The online world has given us access to platforms that allow people to say exactly what they think regardless of who’s listening!
Before you book, check a company’s Google reviews and any social media platforms. These reviews will give a much better understanding of the quality of service provided.
It’s worth noting that customer expectations can vary. What might not be a big deal to some might cause complete outrage to others. Check that any reviews are credible and warranted. Be wary of overly critical reviews. They may have been written from emotion after a bad day. In some cases, negative reviews are intended to harm the reputation of a competitor.
Cost-efficiency
To make sure you’re getting the best value for money, it’s always worth comparing the prices of a range of computer technicians in your area.
While you obviously want to spend less, a cheaper service isn’t always the best value.
Consider the following:
- Geographical location
- Callout fees
- Travel time
- The expertise of the computer technician
- Whether charges are per hour or in smaller increments
- Minimum charge
- Are parts included?
While the per hour rate may vary, those factors can help you decide whether you’re getting the best value for money compared to similar standard providers in the area. Remember, cheaper isn’t always better! In some cases, what you save in dollars, you might be losing in quality of service.
Is there a warranty on repairs?
If a part of a computer is repaired or replaced, confirm whether a warranty exists for that part. If so, is it in your name or the name of the computer technician? This information will help you know where you stand if something fails in future.
Areas of speciality
While general IT skills are essential, always find out where the expertise of your computer technician lies. Do they work best with Mac or PC repairs? Are they more experienced with Windows or IOS? Do they prefer laptops, networks or designing and upgrading infrastructure?
While ‘IT’ covers a broad spectrum, make sure you’re getting the most suitable computer technician for your needs.
Is your computer technician licensed and insured?
If a computer technician is visiting your home or workplace, make sure they have adequate insurance if something goes wrong. This could be as simple as spilling water on equipment or denting a wall when lifting heavy equipment. Of course, you also want to know that data is safe, secure and protected. In the event of an accident or incident, are they covered to reimburse you for any loss?
A computer technician will have a license to operate and a guarantee you’re hiring someone trusted and experienced who will provide legitimate parts and genuine service.
Are they local?
A local computer technician is accessible and can return to the property if you need further support. Not only that, but their reputation will also precede them in the local area. A local computer technician will have also built relationships with local suppliers meaning they can provide the best price and service on any parts required.
Do they have a broad knowledge base?
While it’s important to choose a computer technician who understands your equipment, a varied knowledge base across many issues is essential.
Apart from fundamental testing and diagnostic services, a computer technician should be competent in the following areas:
- Wireless network security
- Setting up email on a tablet or iPhone
- Speeding up a slow computer
- Removing virus, spyware and malware
- Software troubleshooting
- Retrieving lost or missing personal data
- Hardware and software installation and set up
- Infrastructure solutions design and implementation
- Security reviews and audits
- Disaster recovery and business continuity planning
- Custom-built software
- Computer networks
- Cybersecurity management
A computer technician with a wide range of skills and experience will provide a more thorough service providing better value for money.
Do your research
Take the time to look for a credible computer technician that you trust. When trusting someone with your PC or laptop repairs, you’re giving them access to your data which can be a lifeline to your home or business. If you want to ask more than what is published online, pick up the phone. Any credible computer technician will be happy to take the time to answer your questions.
Data protection and privacy
When you trust a computer technician with your data, they must guarantee that it’s safe. In some cases, the computer technician will remove the hard drive before the repair so they don’t have access to your data. If this isn’t possible, a data backup service should be offered first as a standard.
Ask to see the computer technician’s policy on data privacy and protection which they should provide without question. If you’re in any doubt, change passwords as soon as the equipment is returned.
Buzz A Geek is a team of computer technicians providing a mobile IT service across Australia. To find out more or to enquire before you choose us, contact us today.
