Fix it Sometimes

Fix it sometimes – Don’t always replace it!

One of the topics we addressed last month was; Why Buy Used Computers . There were three main points we wanted to make in that article. First, show where money could be saved; second to convey an alternative to purchasing new, and third; promote a GREENER Environment. We still stand behind what we wrote and do not want you to loose sight of it. But with that said, in this article (Fix it sometimes – Don’t always replace it!), we want to address the topic of fixing what you have, extending its life and another opportunity to contain costs. At the core of our business at Bob Johnson’s Computer Stuff is a commitment to helping our clients to be profitable and only selling them what they actually need. We think this article supports that same premise and we hope you see it the same way.

With that backdrop: While buying new stuff is good, buying dependable used stuff at a good price is better – but fixing what you have and getting the most out of your previously spent dollars may be the best. Very often we find that people and businesses will replace a computer rather than fix it. The primary reasons for this are a notion that the existing product is out of date and it may be cheaper to just replace it. Sometimes that thought is correct. Other times, such is in today’s economy, we need to take a second look at that notion.  We’ll make that second look simple with this example. You have a laptop that is broken or not working. Your options are to replace it with a new one for $2K - $5K; purchase a refurbished laptop from Bob Johnson’s Computer STuff  for $200 - $2K; or for a $75 diagnostic fee, you could have us look at your laptop and help you make an informed decision about fixing as to the best option. On average, we find that repairing, updating and then optimizing an existing unit costs $150 a possibility of some parts cost. Take note, at Bob Johnson’s Computer Stuff, we apply the $75 diagnostic fee to the total bill. So, let’s say that repairing your broken laptop costs a total of $250, you get a $75 credit back bringing your real cost down to $175. Hmm, the math speaks for itself but in case you missed it here it is: Buy new for $2K - $5K, buy refurbished for $200 – $2K, or fix what you have and are familiar with for about $175. Myself, I would go with the $175 solution almost every time. Now, I realize that the value of the laptop in hand has to be considered and that’s why I say almost every time.

At Bob Johnson's Computer Stuff we’ll give you a fair and honest assessment of whether or not your laptop is worth repairing. If it is, we’ll do our best to keep the repair cost down and get the unit back to you in a speedy fashion. On balance, if we honestly think its time to replace the unit, we’ll recommend the most cost effective solution possible.  By the way, with a desktop computer the recommended course of action is almost always just replacing it. Why? Well because we sell very good and up-to-date used desktops for as little as $199. With a laptop, very often it’s “let’s fix what you have and save a few dollars that you can use elsewhere”.

So, the next time you have laptop or any computer problems/challenges, give us a call and let’s talk about the alternatives, solutions and cost containment options – fix it, upgrade it, replace it, or what ever is in your best interest. We look forward to hearing from you on your next (or first) computer and IT related needs. Again, at our core here at Bob Johnson’s Computer Stuff, is helping our clients to be profitable and only selling them what is actually needed. You can reach us at 1-877-202-7788 toll free or via e-mail at www.bobjohnson.com and of course, right here at www.usedlaptops.net.