At Acme Business, quality is the most important part of our work. We provide the best quality information technology (IT) services and products to our customers and community. We understand the appeal to business owners cutting business technology costs, as they aim to streamline operations and “cut the fat,” so to speak. But fair warning: there are real and unintended costs of cheap.
Now, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t spend wisely on the right parts and devices. We certainly do for our IT customers. But over our 60 years of experience, we have found that cheaper devices are often more expensive for constant replacement and offer the least functionality for a business.
So let’s do some thinking. Let’s assess your business technology costs and work to determine if cheaper is actually better for your needs – and your bottom line.
What Happens to Cheaper Devices?
Using cheaper technology is an issue because of its inefficiencies and quality. Cheaper technology can leave a company vulnerable without network security, anti-virus and anti-malware software, data backup services, etc. Not only could cheap hardware and software easily malfunction to create huge productivity issues, but data breaches caused by shoddy cybersecurity could lead to massive lawsuits and fines for noncompliance for consumer safety.
Larger businesses would usually pay the fine and continue. Small businesses do not have that luxury, and the cost (in both money and reputation) could be the business itself.
When Buying Cheaper, Other Business Technology Costs Can Add Up
Cheaper devices require more maintenance, upkeep and eventually replacement. Those costs can add up over time. Devices like a USB stick, hubs, and docking stations that were cheaply made can last a couple of years. That period is often with excellent care and almost ideal conditions for the devices.
It might not sound like a bad lifespan, but a better-quality model can last 5 years or longer. Buying multiple cheap devices over a higher-quality model’s lifespan is more expensive than buying one that just lasts longer.
Cheaper Often Means Slower
We’ve discussed this before. There are often hidden (and not-so-hidden) costs associated with slow technology. Well, guess what’s slower than molasses: cheap technology running your business.
One of the most critical resources your company has is time. To run a business smoothly and keep customers satisfied, your technology needs to be functioning at its best. Cheaper and outdated laptops, servers and other tech devices can impact your efficiency and severely hinder your ability to expand your workload. There’s also a risk that cheap devices could even use more energy to function rather than saving power.
Quality, more up-to-date technology enhances productivity while also being easier to upgrade for more cost savings in the long run.
Business Technology Costs: What To Consider When Buying Tech For Your Business
ACME Business knows that a budget is a major part of how much a business can spend on better technology. When looking into buying a new device and upgrading there are crucial factors to consider whether to buy cheap or better quality.
- How old is the current device? If it’s older than 5 years, then it’s probably time to upgrade.
- Is the old device worth repairing? Many times, software and hardware for older technology is no longer supplied by the manufacturer, or is otherwise difficult and/or costly to find. Sometimes repair is exponentially more expensive than replacement.
- How long will the new device be in use?
- How frequently will it be used?
- Can the new device handle the workload of your older device, but also be able to handle more?
- Is it from a vendor you trust and get in contact with quickly if you have questions?
- Is it something you know you need?
Business technology costs can include computers, printers, docking stations, and more devices than we could possibly name here. Acme Business wants to see our clients – and everyone else, for that matter – getting the most out of their technology for their needs. Rule of thumb: if the new item fulfills your current and future needs, it should be a good purchase.
Of course, if you have any questions, give us a call at (716) 372-1325 or visit our website for expert guidance to consider upgrading your devices. Follow us on LinkedIn, too!
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