Your laptop is down for the count. You have tried the enduring favorite – turning it off and then on again – yet somehow, your tech magic did not work out this time! You need assistance, and you need it quick. The issue is whether to take it to a big-box store or local computer business for repair.
Several big-box stores offer depot computer repair. Why do I call it depot repair? It is because, like at a bus or train depot, that chain store is just one stop on your computer's repair voyage. Usually, the shop does not have the facilities to repair your laptop or desktop on-site. Also, their workers lack the skills to get the job done right there.
Instead, that computer, with all your important files, is transported to a different location. This poses some problems:
- Computers can become damaged in shipping/handling
- Culpability is lost when the device is going through a chain of people
- You do not know where your computer is at any one time
- It's return to you slowed by shipment times
That is why we recommend getting your computers fixed at a local business with the necessary skills and facilities to do the job on-site.
Advantages of Small Business Repair
When you take your device to a nearby owned small business, you know all the time who is handling your computer. You frequently hand over your laptop or desktop to the individual fixing it, or at least to someone who is directly in contact with the person repairing it.
Fewer people are going to have their fingers on your device. You are not dropping it off at one place to travel to a different location via a major shipping company's trucks, which means greater accountability.
Another benefit is that should something happen while your computer is in for repair, you can get to your device because it is not on a loading dock or in some pile of laptops in the manufacturer's centralized computer repair shop. You could take your thumb drive down the street and ask to power the computer on and recover what you need, presuming that the device still turns on, that is.
Choosing the Small Business for Your Repair
When you choose a local computer business to repair, do your research first. It's a great idea to inquire about the following:
- Qualifications. Do they possess experience with devices like yours and licenses and credentials?
- Services. You do not want to be looking to fix a cracked screen and go to somebody who focuses on rescuing lost data.
- Customer service record. Search for the testimonials – you may also be able to verify this with business monitoring groups in your local area and on the community website boards.
- Savings. If you do not want to buy a new computer, work together with a business accustomed to reviving old devices.
- Flexibility. When you're eager to get your computer back, you will want someone available right away. Do not let this cloud your decision, however.
Some local computer specialists will be able to resolve your problems without requiring you to go to them. Depending on the issue, they may resolve the situation using remote access software, or they could be willing to come to you.
