What Computer Should I Buy for my Business?

You don't need a technology company to grab a laptop.  Head on over to amazon.com and it will be at your office in 2 days.  But you know that already.  I think you're reading this because you're looking for something more, or maybe you have a hunch there's a better way to make that decision.

Don't let the short-term gain of simple price cost you far more in the long run.  Getting the right equipment for you and your team is a big deal, and making the right choice is an investment not just a simple expense.

The team here at Sentry has purchased thousands of computers as well as supported those devices through many more help desk requests.  Our hope is that you can take some of our knowledge and ask a few better questions that will help you get better results.

So here you go, 5 simple questions to ask when your deciding what computer to purchase:

Question #1: Laptop, Desktop, Tablet or Hybrid Solution?

Choosing between laptops, desktops, tablets and hybrid solutions depend completely on your team’s requirements. Laptops provide the mobility needed for those on the go, desktops offer the stability required for intensive tasks, and we believe hybrid solutions combine the best of both worlds. Assess what your team needs most—portability, power, or flexibility—and select the solution that aligns with your business goals.  

At Sentry, we're big fans of flexibility and efficiency, which is why we often recommend a hybrid approach to our clients. Imagine the ease of docking your laptop into a station equipped with monitors, a keyboard, and a mouse, transforming your portable device into a powerful desktop workstation in seconds. This setup not only enhances productivity in the office but also supports a seamless transition to remote work, ensuring your team can stay productive, no matter where they are. In fact, one of our clients has adopted this innovative docking station setup across their cubicles, enabling their staff to effortlessly connect and engage with their work at any station, ready to dive into productivity mode at a moment's notice!

Question #2: Consumer Grade or Business Grade?

Understanding the difference between consumer and business-grade devices is crucial. While consumer laptops might have some appealing features (like price!), business laptops are designed for reliability, security, and durability. These devices offer enhanced support, stronger builds, and enterprise-level features that are essential for a smooth operation in the corporate environment. Investing in the right device ensures that your business continues to run efficiently.

Consumer-grade devices often include features that are unnecessary for business use and may lack those that are essential. For instance, a high-end video card is beneficial for gaming but not needed for most business applications. Instead, focus on investing in a device that has better technology in places that matter for your business.

Business-grade devices also stand out with longer lifespans, stronger security protocols, and premium support services. These aren't just extra benefits; they're critical to keeping your business running smoothly without interruptions.

At Sentry, we are always steering you towards business-grade devices, and here's why. From our vantage point, overseeing a myriad of help desk inquiries, the distinction in hardware, software, and support between consumer and business-grade devices becomes crystal clear. Opting for a device with superior quality components drastically reduces hardware failures. Moreover, a device built to accommodate business-grade software significantly minimizes software-related hiccups. It's these nuances that underscore our unwavering recommendation for business-grade technology, ensuring your operations are seamless and efficient. 

Question #3: What Will This Cost for Its Entire Lifecycle?

When evaluating the total cost of ownership for business computers, it's important to consider more than just the initial purchase price. This includes long-term expenses such as maintenance, upgrades, and operational costs. Planning for these factors allows you to make a decision that aligns with your budget and avoids unexpected costs later on.

Think of this as preparing for the long term, not just a single purchase. Anticipate expenses related to tech support, potential downtime, and productivity losses from less capable machines. Although a business-grade computer may come with a higher upfront cost, its long-term benefits can lead to greater overall value.

Then that pesky final word of our question comes into play: Lifecycle.  Planning not only for purchasing costs, but replacement costs is a best practice in businesses that leverage technology well.  The right device will gain you stable performance throughout it's lifecycle and optimal return on your investment when it's time to upgrade.

At Sentry, we're dedicated to guiding our clients through the entire lifecycle of equipment replacement. It's a common misconception that short-term gains can outpace the long-term costs of replacement. However, selecting a computer with a 5-year window of effectiveness and considering its replacement cost is not just prudent—it's strategic. We take great pride in crafting these comprehensive plans for our clients, ensuring their equipment continuously fosters productivity and profitability. Our goal is to ensure your business tools are not merely expenses but investments in your future success.

Question #4: What Are The Right Specs for You?

When selecting the right computer for you and your business, it’s important to match the specifications to your specific needs. Consider the software your team uses, the amount of data they handle, and the speed required to maintain productivity. A mismatch in specs could result in inefficiency and hinder your business operations.

Choose a processor, RAM, and storage options based on your business requirements, not just on their popularity.  Is it important for your business to operate on the most current versions of the apps you use?  What about the operating systems like Windows or Mac OS?  Whether your team is working on simple spreadsheets or complex data analysis, selecting the right specs is essential for ensuring success and profitability.  For example, you might purchase a new computer, but with a chip-set that's 5 years old and will be out of service and upgrades next year.  Asking the right questions now keeps you out of the ditch later.

At Sentry, we help by understanding the technology needs of your team, guiding you towards exactly what you need—nothing more, nothing less. Should a more budget-friendly device meet your requirements, that's our top recommendation. Conversely, if staying up-to-date with the latest software versions is crucial for your operations, we ensure your device boasts the most current processor build available. Our passion lies in matching our clients with the ideal devices, empowering them to achieve their goals with greater speed and efficiency.

Question #5: What's The Warranty?

Warranty and support services are crucial for maintaining the reliability of your business devices. It's amazing that multi-million-dollar companies can often be ground to a halt with the failure of a thousand-dollar device.  A strong warranty and support system ensures that when technical issues arise, they are resolved quickly and efficiently, minimizing downtime and maintaining the trust of your clients and team.

Having support in place means that help is always available when needed. This reassurance allows your business to operate smoothly, knowing that any technical problems will be addressed promptly, keeping your operations on track.

At Sentry, our strong partnerships with vendors like Dell empower us to provide unparalleled same-day warranty support for devices purchased  through us. Unlike the frustrating experience of dealing with a breakdown from a laptop snagged off Amazon, where you're left to fend for yourself, our professional-grade devices and robust support structure ensure you're back in action swiftly, with minimal disruption.

We are Here to Help.

In your technology dependent business, making informed technology decisions is more critical than ever. The right equipment can significantly impact your efficiency, security, and overall profitability. At Sentry Technology Solutions, we understand the complexities of selecting the perfect technology for your business. With our expert guidance, you can navigate the many options with confidence, ensuring that you choose the tools that best align with your needs and short term and long-term goals. Let Sentry be your trusted partner in driving your business forward, offering the expertise and support you need to stay ahead in a competitive market.