Buying Computers!

[Tony Monero]

I have been asked to take over the buying of computers for my company. We currently have about 100 computers and growing. Up until now our accounts department have always bought what ever was the cheapest deal that month, so as you can imagine we have a complete mish mash of computers through out the company. Can anyone help with recommendations as the best way to buy e.g. a company deal with Dell? Also are we best having a group licence for Microsoft Office etc instead of buying an individual copy for each machine etc. Many thanks in advance!

[j2buttonsw]

I'd buy Compaq (or HP): Great support, recovery CDs, 3 year onsite warranty etc etc. Dell are good but have a long lead time. If you buy from a distributer (such as www.computer2000.co.uk) you will get good deals on bulk buying. And yes, buy a site license for Office which is much cheaper than OEM licenses.

[Phantaxus]

try www.europc.co.uk they supply 2nd user and new machines from dell/packard bell etc they do come with warranties. As the source of some of these machines are cancelled orders you can get them for a lot less than normal.

[desertrat]

I would second jsbuttonsw. I have purchased HP/Compaq PCs for years now and they seldom go wrong. Most models now come with 3 year next day on site warranty. Microsoft software is better purchased in bulk. Lots of different options. Best have a look at their web site. I originally had a similar problem where after a merger of a number of different compnaies I was left with a lot of different PCs. I often find accountants short-sighted when it comes to the purchase of computer equipment. You will need to present them with facts. This manufacturer breaks down all the time and costs X to repair. Manufacturer Y only gives a 1 year warranty. Manufacturer Z is monopolising the time of the IT department / AN Other when they could be more productive working on project ABC. Once you have determined which manufacturer you are going to stick with shop around for quotes from different suppliers. You will find that prices vary enormously.

[Tony Monero]

This has been great help! Many thanks

[smudge]

Im glad I read this, as I've only just bought an HP T550 pc with cordless keyboard & mouse. It's so hard to know what to buy these days, as there is so much conflicting info from sales staff. But, if HP is a good system & company then I'm happy now. Thanx

[Raydude]

we used elonex. great company we also had 100 computers - enjoy