In today’s day and age, more and more small businesses are becoming dependant on computer networks to perform their day-to-day business. A properly designed computer network can drastically increase the productivity of an office. Notice I used the word “properly”. Unfortunately, a high percentage of today’s office networks are not “properly” designed. A properly designed computer network will not only take in to account the companies current needs, but will also take into account the growth of tomorrow.

When a business is starting out, it has to utilize its startup capital wisely. Many of today’s businesses start out on a stringent budget. Every dime spent becomes a question of whether the company really needs the particular item or can the purchase wait a little longer. As the company grows and starts doing more business, the companies computer needs will also grow. The company may go from only having one computer to having several computers. This is where a “computer network” comes into play. The whole idea behind a computer network is that your office will become more productive do to the fact that you are able to utilize data and resources more efficient. A good example of this is the ability for an office to share one laser printer instead of having several costly inkjet printers sitting on everyone’s desk.

Now days, it is not a matter of “if” but rather “when” a company will need a computer network. There is nothing more frustrating for a business owner than to be told that the computer equipment, that was recently purchased, will not meet the companies growing computer needs. Unfortunately this is a common scenario with many of today’s new businesses. This is generally a result of “poor planning” or more specifically “no planning”. This is why it is a good idea to have your company’s computer networking needs evaluated by a certified network technician.

A network technician can evaluate your company’s present and future technology needs and develop a sound strategy that will allow for the growth that your new business will soon experience. The biggest advantage to having a network strategy established ahead of time is that the company will be investing in computer equipment that will easily adapt with the companies changing needs rather than in equipment that may prove to be a stumbling block for the future growth of the company.

Many companies may be under the impression that having a computer consultation is costly. This misconception cannot be farther from the truth. Typically, a company can have their computer network needs evaluated for a nominal price. Prices can range from $60 to $120 dollars depending on the scope of the evaluation. Also, some network consultants offer complementary network consultations. Regardless of the cost, having a network consultation is a smart way to prevent a lot of aggravation in the future.