COMPUTER MANUFACTURERS SHIFT
FOCUS TO SERVICE
March 18, 1999, 8:06 a.m. PT
Business Editors, Hi-Tech Writers
MANHASSET, N.Y.--)--March 18, 1999--
PC Vendors Battle to Provide Best Support
Businesses need help running their computers and manufacturers are
coming to the rescue with unique support programs designed to meet the
needs of small and medium sized businesses (SMB). The April issue of
Windows Magazine describes how the top five PC vendors--Compaq, Dell,
IBM, Hewlett-Packard and Gateway--are transforming themselves from PC
vendors to PC sales and service vendors, and the support programs they
offer.
A wide array of valuable support services are now being bundled
into computer purchase and lease plans, including needs assessment,
product specification, installation, training, maintenance, upgrades
and repair at your location.
"The choices for small and medium sized businesses are getting
better and better, as PC vendors vie to be your business partner,"
says Jonathan Blackwood, senior technology editor, Windows Magazine.
Compaq
Compaq is allowing customers to access an online array of support
tools, including setting up an online Internet storefront, online
delivery of files via UPS or e-Parcel, online storage of data off-site
and tutorials on a variety of applications.
Dell
Dell is offering specialized leasing packages, installation
support and on-site services, individualized premier pages on its Web
site, which keep track of your purchases, configurations, service
records, order status and so on. Dell's virtual account Executive
Program briefs SMB customers about upcoming products and the impact of
emerging technologies.
Gateway
Gateway has set up 144 Country Stores to demonstrate products,
provide face-to-face advice, order Gateway equipment and provide
training and service upgrades. Gateway uses the stores to build
relationships with customers, VARs and consultants.
Hewlett-Packard
HP leaves virtually all the hand-holding, installation and other
services to its VARs. But if Compaq, IBM and Gateway are successful
with their more involved efforts, expect HP to jump back into the
direct-services route with both feet.
IBM
IBM offers a variety of Internet and e-commerce services, such as
software, Web hosting and site design, along with the servers, PCs and
notebooks, which can be leased through IBM, assembled in a package and
installed and supported by a VAR.
"Leading vendors are improving support services to win your
business," says Blackwood. "Small business owners should compare
product and support offerings before making a decision."
CMP Media's Windows Magazine is the business computer publication
that drives the application of Windows technology for business, from
Windows CE to Windows 2000. It provides 800,000 technology buyers
with the information and perspective they need most (what's new, what
to buy, how to apply it) to make the most of their business computing
investment. Windows Magazine: It's how business really operates.
(www.winmag.com)
CMP Media Inc. (Nasdaq: CMPX) is a leading high-tech media company
that provides essential information and marketing services to the
entire technology spectrum--the builders, sellers and users of
technology worldwide. With its portfolio of newspapers, magazines,
custom publishing, Internet products, research, consulting and
conferences, CMP is uniquely positioned to offer marketers
comprehensive, integrated solutions tailored to meet their individual
needs. Online editions of the company's print publications, along with
products and services created exclusively for the Internet, can be
found on CMPnet at cmpnet.com. NSTL, the company's
independent testing lab and consulting organization, serves
government, corporate and technology vendor clients around the world.
--30--jc/ny*
CONTACT: Golin/Harris International, New York
Neil Vineberg
(212) 697-9191
nvineberg@golinharris.com
or
Golin/Harris International, New York
Pablo Ouziel
(212) 697-9191
pouziel@golinharris.com
KEYWORD: NEW YORK |
