What was the scope of their involvement?
Computer Maintenance Service installs all the new computers we purchase, as well as the manufacturing software we use to run our business. Job Boss is a tool that rapidly generates production, tool inventory, purchase order, and customer reports. They installed and maintain the two servers we have upstairs at our shop. We supply our own printers and scanners, but they provide all the other hardware for our needs.
Computer Maintenance Service conducts backup imaging multiple times a day for all the information on our computers. If we experienced an emergency like a fire, all our data is stored in the cloud. At the beginning of our engagement, they usually had to solve problems in person. Now, about 80 percent of their services are remote. They can resolve most hardware issues like bugs, spam, or a virus from their location.
They also set up a system of 14 cameras throughout my shop and run backups of this footage. If a camera isn't working correctly, they can fix it remotely. Having this system provides legal protection for our company. I've worked with them for personal use, too. They set up a computer at my home in Michigan that's connected to my work desktop. It lets me handle quotes or correspondence from customers when I'm away from the office.
What is the team composition?
I work directly with the two owners. I believe they have about three additional employees on their team.
How did you come to work with Computer Maintenance Service?
Computer Maintenance Service came recommended to me by a friend who runs a larger business than mine in a different industry. I asked him who he used for IT needs, and he told me he works with his uncle, who is the owner. They're located just two miles away from our office, which worked out very well for us.
How much have you invested with them?
Last year, I spent about $16,900 on their services. The average cost is between $12,000–$20,000 annually. They offer monthly prices and a block of hours. We usually start off with 22-24. I appreciate that they use conservative estimates rather than rounding five minutes of work up to a whole hour.
What is the status of this engagement?
We've been working together for about 18 years now, since 2000.
Computer Maintenance Service has been a reliable, supportive, and friendly partner to work with for almost two decades. The Job Boss software they installed is integral to day-to-day business. Maintaining a surveillance system offers legal security. They can even solve most problems remotely.