| If you would like to cut costs during the current | | | | First, the author states that you should try to |
| recession without cutting jobs, there are a | | | | keep extra cash on hand and consider renting |
| number of things you can do, including renting | | | | assets. But how can you save money if you need |
| computers. As we'll see, renting IT assets instead | | | | a new printer, desktop, laptop or other hardware? |
| of buying can save capital and leave you with | | | | Easy. You conduct a rigorous exam of your |
| more available credit. | | | | needs and determine which IT assets you simply |
| A recent article in the Bermuda Sun gave | | | | must have versus the machines you may need |
| businesses some sound advice for cutting back | | | | only occasionally. |
| during tough economic times. Tips include:o Spend | | | | Instead of spending money on new purchases |
| only what you need to spend. In other words, | | | | across the board, you can reduce expenses by |
| don't go for the big-ticket, luxury item when the | | | | only buying what you absolutely need. You can fill |
| basics will suit you fine.o Cutting staff may have a | | | | in any technology gaps by renting computers or |
| negative impact on your ability to provide good | | | | printers. The end result is less cash going out the |
| customer service, which can have a long-term | | | | door and more cash (and credit) available to help |
| effect on the reputation of your business.o Offer | | | | you through lean times. |
| the best possible service. Customers are shopping | | | | The Bermuda Sun article also mentions selling |
| less often, so you need to stand out to get | | | | assets you don't need. Maybe during the good |
| sales.o Keep marketing so your name stays front | | | | times you bought a high-end color laser printer. |
| of mind for potential customers.o Keep extra | | | | Although it is a great performer, it may really be |
| cash on hand to act as your own line of credit. | | | | more than you need. Many computer rentals |
| You may also want to sell off assets you don't | | | | agents offer a buy-back program to help |
| need.o To save money, try renting assets instead | | | | businesses discard their old equipment. They |
| of buying. | | | | purchase your equipment and then use it for their |
| This is all good advice, but the last two points | | | | computer rentals programs. With the cash you |
| require a little more explanation. | | | | get back for your high-end printer, you could |
| How Renting Computers Can Save Money | | | | lease or rent a smaller printer. |
| Although the author of the Bermuda Sun article | | | | Other Benefits of Computer Rentals |
| was talking about all business assets, this article | | | | Renting computers is not just about actual |
| will focus on IT assets to provide an example of | | | | computers either. Most rental agents will rent a full |
| how renting computers and other office machines | | | | range of audiovisual equipment as well. So instead |
| can save money. | | | | of investing in an LCD or plasma screen for your |
| Computer equipment and office machines are a | | | | next business presentation, you can rent one. |
| major expense, and one that can easily be | | | | Renting computers and other IT assets is a |
| reduced by renting computers and other | | | | money-saving strategy ideally suited to today's |
| hardware. Let's look at computer rentals in the | | | | challenging economy. To learn more, contact a |
| context of the Bermuda Sun article. | | | | computer rentals agent. |