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Computer Sales
Expert Service
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| "Tom and Jim are really good computer guys" |
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Q: Is it true that you gentlemen were friends for many years prior to going into business together? Why don't you answer these for me, Tom?
A: Happy to. Yes it is. Jim and I were 11th grade members of the Elston High School Band. Jim was the Coronet king, and I played a rather good Baritone Saxophone. We then discovered that we had a common interest in electronics and technological products. Back then it was CB radios and car stereos. Soon after, video games became the hot item, specifically ones that were sports related and provided the one on one or team play competition we both enjoyed such as Atari, Intellivision, Nintendo, and then to X-Box. My first business (1975 - 1985) was a Restaurant/CB and Auto Stereo Shop located close to the Indiana/Michigan state line, and it was quite a successful business venture for me.
It was in 1994 when Jim and I began talking in earnest about doing something more productive with the time we spent together. I had just expanded my small business consulting operation by placing ads on Compuserve touting my expertise in repairing difficult computer problems and offering an upgrade package I thought might be appealing.
The next thing I knew, I had computers being shipped to me from all over the U.S. This was more than enough to keep a one man business hopping! I then decided, after viewing the used computer shells taking over my house, that it was time to talk serious business with Jim. Jim and I decided to build each of them into useable, yet used, computers which we sold from my kitchen table at weekend open houses. I know this is a simplistic version of how it began, but the "trade secrets" are kept as that.
Even though Jim and I continued our other full-time jobs, we worked evening and weekend hours to pursue this fun yet challenging endeavor. Every under achieving computer was whipped into shape in a timely manner. We were thrilled that people found our passion, integrity, and business acumen, accompanied by a fair price, provided just what they needed.
Q: Flash Pro-Techsperts has grown from your 10 year joint venture, the former PC Depot, correct?
A: The PC Depot was officially born in 1995 and became PC Depot, Inc. in 1997. Jim and I were the only employees and our hours were limited to Friday 4 to 8 and Saturday 10 to 3. Thanks to the availability of an empty building owned by Jim's parents, we set up shop at 102 May Avenue, Michigan City. We have now grown to 12 employees housed in our own facility located at 2424 Franklin Street in Michigan City: We are home!
Q: Why the name change? Bigger building, bigger name?
A: Not at all. In July of 2005, PC Depot entered into a contract with Francorp Development Services, a designer of franchise programs with a 25 year solid reputation for world-wide experience, scope and knowledge, and the ability to assist us in the design of the finest of franchise programs. The first stage for our development process was changing our name to a unique, personal name not presently used by anyone else in the country so it could be Trademarked. We're very pleased with our new name, Flash Pro-Techsperts, because we believe it effectively and clearly speaks our message of who we are and what we do. "Fast, Professional, Expert, Computer Service (and Sales)" - Flash Pro-Techsperts.
Q: Can a small concern compete with the big name stores? What can you offer to make you special?
A: In a word? RESPONSE - that's what you want when your computer is down. And competing with big names stores? What makes us special is SERVICE ON SITE. We work with the feeling you get when you enter our store or speak with one of our staff. We understand and value your time, and we are never afraid to show that to you. When you telephone, you are always treated with the individual attention we all desire. You will never talk to a machine (unless we are closed for the day). We speak "your" language; both the novice in the computer world and the experts will find our communication geared to their level.
And you know, being "close by when you need us" is something never offered by the large, big name stores. We understand that your computer is an integral part of your daily life whether you are a student, a home worker, or a computer guru -- when you need your machine, you expect it to work for you. We understand and focus everything we do based on that overall premise. We do not sell thousands of products and don't consider ourselves a volume merchant. We sell products that are necessary to get and keep your computer up and running QUICKLY. We have 6 full-time technicians with 6 additional support personnel on the job Monday through Saturday ready to make your project a priority in a moment's notice. We offer 24 hour turnaround on computer repair as our standard.
If you require your machine back ASAP we offer RUSH SERVICE options. A technician will give your machine his undivided and immediate attention with a typical 1 to 3 hour turnaround. Of course, additional charges will apply for this premium service.
As for sales, we offer new custom built equipment which is competitively priced, LCD monitors, HP printers, and Compaq HP Notebook Computers just to name a few. If you ever have a problem with something purchased from us, we make it easy for you. We will solve that problem. Right now. No hassles.
Our used computers are very special to us. We have been able to provide an even more economical solution to many computer problems by refurbishing our used machines. This keeps them from landfills and puts them into the hands of those who may not need or want the latest and greatest... their desire is to get on the internet, write some letters or even play Solitaire.
We back our used computer with a very special warranty that we call a "6 month 100% trade up warranty". Simply put, we give you a 6 month, parts/labor guarantee PLUS offering you the opportunity to return your machine during that period and receive your 100% initial investment put toward the purchase of a new computer. That's price protection! It adds an extra comfort layer in case you are not happy with your used computer no matter what the reason might be.
Occasionally it is more cost efficient to replace your computer than repair it. We have more immediate options available to make certain that your computer dollars are invested wisely. Repair, upgrade, replace with new or used... these options are carefully considered prior to major service being done.
Q: How difficult is it to obtain a franchise?
A: See our Franchise Info and FAQ pages.
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"Tom & Jim Are Really Good Computer Guys"
