Over the years we have had a number of suppliers. Some, we even traveled long distances just to buy parts or return defective ones. That was the time when computer suppliers were very limited, and only a few are prominent. But now that there are computer suppliers everywhere, the only problem is choosing the right one.
I would not enumerate computer suppliers here because of the fact that, what works for some does not work for everyone. Instead, I will just give some pointers on how to get the right one:
Location:
This is perhaps one of the most important things to look for. Is the supplier near your shop? Do they have parking space?
Pricing and discounts:
Is their price lower than other suppliers? If not do they give discounts? If their prices are lower at the same time give good discounts, then the better.
Payment Terms:
No supplier will trust you with long payment terms during your first purchase, but after a while, your supplier should be able to give long payment terms. This is helpful during those days that cash is low but you are expecting budget in the next couple of months.
Product Know How:
Your supplier should know the products that they are selling, and give suggestions based on the needs of your LAN shop or your inquiries.
Availability of Parts:
Your supplier should be able to give you the parts you need, the time you need it. If not, they should at least be able to tell you when the parts will available.
Warranty:
Your supplier should have a good policy when it comes to defective parts, one week old defective parts should be replaced immediately. If they give refunds or replace the parts immediately even after a week, then better.
Personnel:
They should have adequate and efficient technicians and sales personnel to handle customers. And of course their personnel should be polite and patient especially to those who have little or no technical knowledge.
Track Record and Stability:
How many years have they existed? Do they have many customers? What is the feedback from other customers? Are they stable and not bound to close sooner or later?
A good supplier is essential for a LAN shop’s continuous existence, and you are lucky if you found a supplier that falls into the categories above. But since trust and having a good relationship with your supplier is not something that can be built overnight, it is always wise to find other suppliers this early for contingency purposes. This is because of the fact that there are too many uncertainties, and one of this is a supplier closing shop, or you opening up or transferring in another location. If this happens, then you will be ready.
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www.catoonstock.com
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