Setting up your new computer correctly can mean the difference between hours of frustration and lower productivity, or a quick and enjoyable setup with a minimum of hassle. Here are some important questions to ask before you employ someone to set-up your new computer.
Q: Will you transfer my files and PLACE THEM IN THE CORRECT FOLDERS ON MY NEW COMPUTER?
A: This is important because we’ve seen many technicians copy all files and put them into a single folder. This is a lazy practice, and makes finding your documents, music, pictures, videos, and downloads a hassle since you can’t simply click the normal shortcuts on your computer.
Q: Will you transfer my emails and MAKE SURE I DON’T GET DUPLICATE EMAILS?
A: Many technicians do not take the time (or know how) to properly transfer emails, so you get stuck with potentially thousands of duplicate emails in your Inbox.
Q: Will you copy MY DESKTOP SHORTCUTS, TASKBAR ICONS AND WALLPAPER?
A: Copying these items is straightforward and makes your new computer seem more like your old computer.
Q: Will you TRANSFER MY BOOKMARKS?
A: There’s no reason for you to have to recreate your bookmarks on your new computer when they can be easily copied over.
Q: Will you INTERVIEW ME TO FIND OUT WHICH SOFTWARE PROGRAMS AND DEVICES I USE, AND INSTALL EVERYTHING I NEED?
A: Your technician should interview you to find out which software programs you use, which devices you use with your computer, (such as printers, cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, etc.).
Q: Will you TEST INTERNET, PRINTING, SCANNING, EMAIL, SPEAKERS, WEBCAM, OFFICE PROGRAMS AND RESTART MY COMPUTER TO MAKE SURE EVERYTHING IS WORKING?
A: This is important because if something is not tested, you may need to have another service call to fix something that could/should have been fixed in the initial setup.
Q: Will you STAY AND HAVE ME TEST EVERYTHING AND PROVIDE ANY TRAINING I MIGHT NEED, ANSWER QUESTIONS OR MAKE CUSTOMIZATIONS?
A: It’s critical that you sit down with your new computer and run through all the things you use it for. Inevitably, questions will arise, and in many cases, you’ll want some customization-larger text size, different color scheme, etc. We’ve found that it often makes sense to schedule a follow-up training session after you’ve had some time to use the computer and gather questions.
