RCD Service – Computer HELP

To upgrade or not?

I have used Windows 7 starting with the beta. It is definetly better than Vista. Windows XP still works fine in most cases.

The one big improvment is the speed. It operates faster both loading programs and internet surfing.

There are two concerns with upgrading.
1- Hardware compatibility is still a problem but not as much as with Vista.
2- Specialized software use can cause a problem if you are using older versions.

First lets look at hardware. As with Vista, you will need at least 2MB RAM to run properly. Priinter drivers I have found to be available more so than with Vista. One glitch I have found is with some drivers having to re-install before printing. It only happens once in a while.

Video cards can be a problem if you want the glitzy interface of window 7.

Software, of the specialized kind, used at many offices can cause problems so make sure of the software specifications (especially with databases) includes Windows 7. You may have to upgrade it to work properly.

Overall, I suggest not upgrading unless their is a real need. (if you have Vista, I recommend upgrading) Wait until you need to replace the PC before jumping in with Windows 7. You should use a test machine to test you software first before upgrading or purchasing Windows 7.

I also recommend the Pro version. It gives you the flexibility in the office environment use of the PC.ot?

   First off, creating it yourself will save you money for sure, but like the old saying goes “You get what you pay for”.

  There are some advantages to creating a website yourself besides money.  You will be creating your vision not someone elses.  Also, if changes need to be made you can make them quickly.

  Keep in mind that a website is more than a picture.  It takes special, expensive software to create really cool Flash and Photo pages.  Your website will stand out and look more professional with more expensive software.

  When your create your own site do you stop to think how it will appear on different browsers?  Professionals do!!!

  A professional will have the knowledge to make your website Google friendly and work to get your website on the first couple of pages of Google which is very important to your business.

  Professionals can also create forms and e-mail contact pages that will make your website user friendly.

  What are your thoughts on the matter? Have you created your own website? If so, tell us your experience.

Remote access to access your business system and data can be accomplished at a reasonable cost effective way.

Example of remote access to an office would be an accountant in a dental office. It gives them access to work from home. We know how important the account manager becomes on payday. The dentist can also access a patient’s data during off hours in a secure way to help patients. I have customers doing this and have come to be very dependant on it. In small businesses you do not have the luxury of having more than one person to do each job.

Another example would be a business with more than one office and would like to have both offices using the same data files from the business system. This can be accomplished in many ways dependant on the budget. The most cost effective way is the use of a VPN (Virtual Private Network through the internet) between each office using one server.

As you can see, both examples can be accomplished for small businesses with the cost and usability benefits to improve access to data and better streamline your business.

If you would like more information on this subject, go to www.rcdsv.com or leave a question on this blog.

The Acer laptop is getting good reviews. It has been used by RCD Service for years and has been a reliable laptop. We have sold both the Acer and Lenovo laptops to our customers. They are both relatively low cost laptops.

Lenovo is made in China. The Acer is made in Taiwan. I have found in most cases that products made in Taiwan are of better quality.

The Lenovo laptop comes with a lot of advertising software and also has Lenovo specific software both for the wireless and security. These are a problem when used in the enviroment of a small business trying to operate with business specific software. Whereas, Acer laptops have worked very well. It all depends on the use. 

I recommend to all my Nashville customers today only the Acer laptop. That could change as time passes and with new developments in laptops. (This evaluation is not model specific but as an overall product review.)

New businesses have a hard time getting what they need at costs they can afford. New PCs, laptops, networking and internet services can be confusing. The needs for each business depends on the software and access needed to make the business a success in the competitive markets today. Having a Tech Team to back them up will make that issue easier to deal with.

Making the wrong decision on what software to use can cause a business much needed money.