By all estimates, over three trillion dollars were spent this year on all things Information Technology. Computing hardware sales make up a large part of this huge number. But it isn't the just the cost of the new hardware that can have the biggest impact on an IT budget, as many businesses soon find out. The real cost comes from purchasing the support necessary to keep your hardware running.
The trouble lies in the fact that much of the hardware made today is built well and designed to last for a long time. While this might sound like a good thing, it becomes an issue later on when the hardware eventually becomes outdated. Companies must then decide how to save the most money. Should you invest in brand new hardware, upgrade your current hardware even though it still meets your needs, or pay a higher price to have your outdated hardware supported.
This decision can often times be both difficult and costly, but it's a decision that has to be made from time to time to keep your systems updated and running smoothly. While there is no magic solution, you can help lessen the burden on your budget by asking yourself these questions:
1. Do I have more support in some areas where I don't really need it? If you could manage with less support then you should drop it and save the money.
2. Is my reseller charging me fair rates for support? Find out the prices you would pay if you purchased from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to know if you are over paying.
3. How long will my computer hardware be supported? It is vital that you understand the lifespan on your current equipment so that you have adequate time to prepare for each end-of-life.
4. Is there a third-party technical support provider that can supply premium support at a lower cost to you? If never hurts to shop around; it could save you big money in the long run.
5. Are my reseller's OEM incentives being passed on to me as discounts? You should always negotiate with your reseller to be sure that you are getting every price reduction available.
Hardware support is a necessary cost in every IT budget. Knowing where you can cut back and save some money will help lessen the burden of this growing expense.
The trouble lies in the fact that much of the hardware made today is built well and designed to last for a long time. While this might sound like a good thing, it becomes an issue later on when the hardware eventually becomes outdated. Companies must then decide how to save the most money. Should you invest in brand new hardware, upgrade your current hardware even though it still meets your needs, or pay a higher price to have your outdated hardware supported.
This decision can often times be both difficult and costly, but it's a decision that has to be made from time to time to keep your systems updated and running smoothly. While there is no magic solution, you can help lessen the burden on your budget by asking yourself these questions:
1. Do I have more support in some areas where I don't really need it? If you could manage with less support then you should drop it and save the money.
2. Is my reseller charging me fair rates for support? Find out the prices you would pay if you purchased from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to know if you are over paying.
3. How long will my computer hardware be supported? It is vital that you understand the lifespan on your current equipment so that you have adequate time to prepare for each end-of-life.
4. Is there a third-party technical support provider that can supply premium support at a lower cost to you? If never hurts to shop around; it could save you big money in the long run.
5. Are my reseller's OEM incentives being passed on to me as discounts? You should always negotiate with your reseller to be sure that you are getting every price reduction available.
Hardware support is a necessary cost in every IT budget. Knowing where you can cut back and save some money will help lessen the burden of this growing expense.
About the Author:
Joseph B. Kappernick is an online financial expert. Click here to learn more about Telecom Cost Reduction .. Unique version for reprint here: What Are You Doing to Lower Your Hardware Support Costs?.
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