BUILD, BUY, OR LEASE?
Computer users have many options
when it comes to hardware acquisition. Which method is the best
for your organization? This article briefly outlines the advantages
and disadvantages or building, building, or leasing a computer.
| Build |
Buy |
Lease |
| -Longer set up time |
+ Quick to obtain and set up |
+ Quick to obtain and set up |
| + Cheaper |
-More expensive |
-More expensive |
| -Easy to upgrade |
-Difficult to upgrade, esp. a laptop |
-Cannot upgrade |
| -Room for error |
+Do not need knowledge of computer components |
+Do not need knowledge of computer components |
| -Warranty only on individual parts |
+ Full warranty |
+Full warranty |
| +Highly customizable; only pay for parts
you need |
-Packages only, may not suit individual
needs |
-Packages only, may not suit individual
needs |
Do:
• Plan ahead – what do you want your computer to do?
What about in two years?
• Ask for a deal; if the vendor throws in peripherals you
don’t need you have two choices, (a) sell
the unnecessary parts on E-bay or (b) as the salesperson to
adjust the price as necessary
• Think about tech support; does the company charge for
tech support? How user friendly is their Web page?
Don’t
• Be apprehensive when speaking with a salesperson. If you
do not feel you are being treated fairly or the person cannot
explain technical terms to you, ask to speak to another sales
associate, or better yet, the manager
• Lose your receipts, boxes, warranty cards or drivers;
keep it all together in a safe place
• Get stuck with parts or warranties that won’t suit
your needs; pick a seller that provides what you want. You are
the customer!
• Buy a cheap printer with expensive ink cartridges
Before you head to the store, be
sure to look at PC magazines, ask friends and co-workers to discuss
their own experiences, and check the local newspaper ads for prices
on parts and systems. Buying from an online store can save time
and money especially if sales tax is not charged in your state.
Furthermore, many vendors have
discounts on shipping for large orders. If you buy from a local
vendor or superstore chain, you may spend more money than necessary
but obtain your product quicker. Leasing a computer may be the
best option for nonprofits that do not have consistent funding,
are in a state of flux or transition, or are unsure about which
computer is best. If your nonprofit chooses to lease computers,
be sure your contract includes a service and maintenance plan
(on-site is ideal), support for upgrades and software patches,
and end of lease options which may allow your organization to
replace your now outdated equipment.
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