I need to understand
I have met a few clients who rationalize getting up to their elbows in their
computers, with "I need to understand how this technology works - my
business relies on it." Why?
So you can fix it yourself? Is that what you really want? Can
your business afford for you to become Mr. Computer Guy? That might be
fine if your ultimate plan for your business is to become a computer dealer, but
if you're an accountant, manufacturer or dentist, just precisely why do you want
to wrestle with your computer technology?
Do you "need to know" everything about your copier? How about
your car? And, of course I'm sure you're an expert on the HVAC system at
the office...your operation couldn't operate without that either, could it?
There are normally two reasons why small business owners want to tinker with
their computers.
The first is because they LIKE to. Computers are a hobby for many
people, and if you can't use your business to support your hobby, what good is
it? This is OK. If your business can absorb the cost of indulging in
your need to run cable, install software and sit on hold with tech support, more
power to you. As long as you admit it, I'll go along with it. Funny
though, how nobody every thinks of copiers as a hobby.
The second, and more serious issue is that the computers and network are so
unstable that you HAVE to be an expert to keep the systems up and running.
If you're not, then you'll spend too much money on consultants. Your
company can't afford it.
If this is truly the case, then you must make some decisions. You have
to weigh the true value that your business will receive against the instability
of the system and against the business costs of your not doing what you're
supposed to be doing - running the company. You may find that this
decision process comes down in favor of your doing it yourself. The value
of the system far outweighs the value that you have to the business. But
I'll wager that this isn't often.
Because what you're really saying is that you have more value to your company
as a computer technician, than as president.
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