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Business Tips for Custom Computer Builders

Computers are an integral part of life for millions of people. For many, off-the-shelf models are not capable of filling their needs. Higher quality video, solid-state disk drives, and faster processors with multi-cores are just a few of the items that can take a custom computer from being just good enough to super-charged. The increased demand for custom-built computers means that there are opportunities for hobbyists and business people to offer this service.

Some people just want the best components for their custom computers. Others have specific needs. These needs include:

  • Gaming
  • Cryptocurrency Mining
  • Multimedia Production

If you are someone who builds computers for others, here are some tips that will help you to be more productive and avoid any headaches when communicating with your clients.

  1. Keeping up with technology

Custom builders need to satisfy the needs of their customers. Those will change depending on the customer’s budget and anticipated use of the computer. Having multiple solutions and options from several manufacturers demonstrates your professionalism and dedication to your craft. By keeping up with technology all the time, you will save yourself time doing research when you may be faced with completing several projects under a deadline.

  1. The importance of being organized

The people for whom you build computers will have a lot of questions, expectations, and specifications. Whether running a computer build business or doing this as a hobby, you need to look at ways to keep this information organized. Using a note taking app like Evernote to track orders and keep details on all your tasks is an important step in this direction. What’s more, the efficiency gains from using apps that improve productivity will free you up to get more business.

  1. Tracking your finances

Tracking finances is an important part of any endeavor but especially true when you are building a high-end product like a custom computer. You should track your time and costs. Doing this will allow you to provide better estimates on what you will charge and whether you are maximizing your income.

  1. Communicating the limits of ongoing support

The expectations of the computer builder and the customer may be different when it comes to providing ongoing support. When they call you six months after the sale and ask why there is a buzzing sound coming from the computer, you will regret not having some sort of agreement for ongoing support. Before giving them their new computer, make sure they understand that you cannot provide a warranty service if a part is defective. Also, they need to know for how long you will help them troubleshoot problems and if there are charges associated with that work.

  1. Remember that the customer is always right

Often, the customer will tell you that they want a different brand used than what you recommend. They may also want to cut corners to save money. When this happens, you need to decide if you still want to build their computer. If you do decide to build using their suggestions, and not what may be the best for them, you need to remember that they are right. Even when they may be wrong.

Building computers can be rewarding in many ways. It can also be frustrating if expectations and services are not communicated at the start. Communicate well, make sure the customer understands the process and keep track of everything you do. If you do these things well, you will build great machines and leave them with happy customers.

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