I remember making a call last year to my provider telling them that because we do so much business at the customer’s workplace, that it would be very useful to have a portable point of sale system.  Well after they gave me the costs, and I awoke from fainting, we continued on without having an automated system of on-site credit card charging.  The payment processing company was not apologetic in any way and had a very staunch “take it or leave it” attitude.

Fast forward a couple years and I am sitting watching 60 minutes, when they do a report on the inventor of twitter.  It turns out that he shared the same struggles I did early on in his career, so he decided to do something about it. So he invented the square.   Now before I go on, I need to tell you that I am only writing this blog because I love this product.  I do not get paid by them or am intending to make this a commercial, but I have found that if something really great comes along, you should tell your friends because it might help them to succeed.

So back to the square.  Basically, it is a small device (in the shape of a square) that you can plug into almost any smartphone’s earphone jack, and accept mastercard and visa payments.  Yes their rates are higher (2.75%) but there are no monthly fees or additional fees as long as you swipe the card.  The reader is free, you just have to go online and ask for one.

I hope you find this as useful as we are.  I would love to hear your feedback if you have switched or are thinking of switching.

Thanks for reading, (please remember to hit share on this article for me)

Kirk

Computer Repair Barrie~Fast Solution On-Site Computer Services~The Square!

But there was one thing that the majority conceded to.  Their idea was that to truly be an entrepreneur, you have to fully immerse yourself in your business.  Most times putting your family on the back burner, travelling 300+ days of the year, and always thinking of the next big thing.  This bothered me because in my mind this defeats the purpose of being self-employed.  I started a business because I saw there was a hole in my market in Barrie.  I wanted to fill a void of service that would satisfy consumers.  But I also wanted to establish a position for myself to be around more for my family, not to avoid them.

So could this  be generational?  I realize that my generation has had it fairly easy, and I say this based on my personal upbringing.  Compared to what my parents had to do, my life has been relatively simple.  Don’t get me wrong, I know I work hard, but I have never had to truly go “without” like they did.  But is it for this reason that I value a better balance between my professional life and my family life?

My father has literally worked since grade 9.  I do not mean he has had odd jobs, I mean he has worked and supported his family.  His father, my grandfather, died at age 35.  He had heart issues, and therefore my father was thrust into a life of helping to provide for his brother and sister.  He eventually created a construction company that specialized in custom homes.  He has done an amazing job providing for our family, but because of what he has been through, and how he quantifies success, I am not sure that he has ever enjoyed life.  So you say to yourself, well “that is life”, but my immediate response is “does it have to be?”

I guess my answer comes with some variables.  What does your family NEED vs WANT.  For example, if you can live without buying a new car every other year, you might be able to work less.  If you are busy keeping up with the Joneses you will probably have to work more.  But the absolute answer lies on your definition of success.

I am a successful entrepreneur because my family comes first.  Yes it will take me longer to be wealthy, but I will always have someone to share my accomplishments with along the way.

To end last night’s program you got to see something rare, Kevin O’Leary coming to tears, describing how he almost lost his family because he was so consumed with making that next dollar.  It made me realize he may be human after all, and it also made me think he was much more successful now that he changed his path before it was too late.

“Everyone needs a certain amount of money. Beyond that, we pursue money because we know how to obtain it. We don’t necessarily know how to obtain happiness.”
Gregg Easterbrook 

Computer Repair Barrie~Fast Solution On-Site Computer Services~Entrepreneur or Workaholic?

When I started my career in sales, one of the most troubling things that would happen from time to time, would be claims.  This could be a result of a number of things but the underlining feature of all of them was that the customer was not happy.  So each time I would get that dreaded call from a customer my stomach would tie in knots, and I would want to crawl in a hole somewhere until the dust settled.  Until one day my boss Jeff said to me, you are looking at this all wrong.  ”Within every problem lies an opportunity” he would say.  His point in a nutshell was that every time you had a complication or a complaint from a customer, you had a window.  Most likely a small window, of time and space, that you could strengthen your relationship with a customer.

We all make mistakes, but it is those of us that can show we care, and quickly resolve the issues, that will last the test of time in our businesses and personal lives.  Jeff’s idea was that if you can prove to a customer that you stand behind what you do and that anything that can be resolved will be, then you can turn any situation into a positive.  It is the way that an issue is handled that will determine the strength of the relationship between you and your customer.

So does this mean that every time a customer complains you give in? No way.  The idea is to be creative, and to borrow a phrase that gets overused “think outside the box”.  This creativity will separate the good from the bad businesses.  The strong from the weak if you will.

We have found that because we work in an industry that confuses a great number of our customers, we need to have this creativity.  There are many variables in electronics as a whole, but helping the customer understand them, does diffuse a number of situations.  But if our attitude was “take it or leave it” we would not be long in business.

If you are looking for an explanation, or a different perspective in your I.T needs we are a phone call away.  We offer businesses a one hour free assessment as well, so that way you can have your cake and eat it too.  We will provide you with some solutions, and you will not pay for anything, until you decide to let us implement the ideas.

Thank you once again for reading my blog, please hit share after you are done reading if you feel this information is worth passing around.

Computer Repair Barrie~Fast Solution On-Site Computer Services~Perspective

As a customer, you should question anything with a technician that you do not think makes sense.  For example, if you have a one or two-year old computer and a technician tells you it needs to be replaced, you may want to get a second opinion.

In recent weeks, we have come across several examples of “experts” recommending that a computer be replaced instead of repair.  Upon inspection, it looks like that technician may have not had the knowledge to repair, and instead convinced the customer to replace it.  Which brings me to another point, and yes I have blogged about it before.  You get what you pay for.

Now I will not harp on this point because if you have read my blogs before you will know my stance, but I will say this, we have now had several cases where the “cheap” guys have actually cost the customer almost double what we would have charged.  Yes their hourly rate is less than ours, but because of my technicians’ experience, they have been able to diagnose the issue quicker and more accurately  and therefore we end up being the more cost-effective option.

My recommendation is talk to your friends.  Call the Chamber of commerce.  Ask a fellow business person who they use.  That way you do not have to take my word for it, you can have someone else share an experience they have had.  About every third new call we receive is a referral call, and we take immense pride in that.  Because it doesn’t mean that we have spent the most in advertising, or attracted attention because of some hollow promise or guarantee, we earned that business through the terrific work and service we provide each customer.  So much so that our customers feel the need to suggest us to the ones they care the most about, their family and friends!

Please feel free to call us anytime, even for a suggestion or second opinion.  Our service doesn’t end after we have fixed your problem, we are here as a resource to help you make educated decisions with your technology.

One final thing.  The only way referrals work is when they are passed.  If you have used our service, and are satisfied with what we have done, please pass this on.  We love to make you look good by recommending us!

****Also for the remainder of March and April we are offering a one hour service call PLUS a one year AVG antivirus for $99…don’t delay, once it is gone it is gone!**************(not to be combined with any other offers)

Computer Repair Barrie~Fast Solution On-Site Computer Services~If it’s not broken…..

We had a representative come to our club yesterday to give us some information about blood donation.  One of the most alarming statistics she gave was that only 4% of Canadians give blood.  The other was that if you are in a car accident you may need as many as 50 pints of blood…so in essence 50 donations.  Just think about how many car accidents you hear about each day….we need to do better.

The number of donations needed for something like Leukaemia was even more staggering. The problem is that we all know someone who has needed blood, so wouldn’t that be motivation to go and donate?

The common misconception about giving to a charity is that you have to give money, and lots of it, and quite frankly in these economic times a lot of us are trying to figure out mortgage payments, not who we can give money to.  So in that spirit, why not donate your blood.  It is 45 minutes out of your life every 56 days.  So in essence, every 2 months you can offer up less than an hour, and SAVE SOMEONE’S LIFE!!!! How great is that.

I started giving blood in January of 2012, because a group of Rotarians were going.  By the time I could donate again we found out that a member’s 4-year-old daughter had leukaemia so the awareness came on strong.  I have given every 56 days since and will continue to until someone tells me I can’t.  It doesn’t cost me a thing, I don’t have to prepare for it, I just sit down save a life, and they give me a cookie at the end!

So if you are so inclined, and want to be a part of the 4% and not the other 96% that can’t or won’t give up a short amount of time to save a fellow humans life, call and make an appointment. 1-888-2-DONATE is the number in Canada to call, and if you don’t mind, give them this code #ROTA011470 to let them know a Rotarian sent you there.

If you need even more incentive I will be willing to give anyone that donates in the month of February 2013, $25 off their next invoice from Fast Solution.  But make sure to use the code so I know you went.  Ok I said that this blog was not going to be about my business, but if it makes you go give blood, then it was worth it.

Thanks for reading, please click below to share this blog.

Fast Solution On-Site Computer Services~Everyone can be a hero

So it was with much hesitation that I switched to Windows 8.  I partly wanted to because of curiosity, and partly from necessity.  If I have a customer call with issues, I better know what I am talking about.  So about a month or so ago, after looking at the trial version, I switched one of our computers at the shop to windows 8.

Now let’s keep in mind that this is my opinion.  You may not share it, but the only experience I can describe is mine.  If you have had similar or different experiences please comment on this blog.

To judge windows 8 in its truest form, mind you, would require touch screen capabilities, which my existing PC did not have.  And maybe that was the purpose of Windows 8, to switch us all to tablets etc that let you use your finger instead of a mouse.  However, there are still many of us that prefer our laptops and desktops, and just because Microsoft says it is time for you to change doesn’t mean you have to. Here are a couple more of the drawbacks that hit me immediately as a desktop user.

They removed the start button.  This may not sound like a big change, but it creates an annoyance right away.  If you are on your desktop screen, one of your toolbar icons is now where the old start button was. To get a start button you have to be in the bottom left of your screen.  If before you left click on the start button your mouse moves ever so slightly, you will end up left clicking on whatever toolbar icon is there.  Yes it is something that just takes some getting used to, but where is the advantage for the user?

The other main beef I have with the new platform is that everything seems to have been moved and more difficult to find for no apparent reason.  Yes everything is still there, but you will have to dig a little to get it.  I wouldn’t mind this if there was a purpose.  it does not help my computer usage, or make it quicker for me to utilize, so why change what wasn’t broke?

Obviously I have condensed both of these issues to avoid boring you in this article, but I think you get the point.  Windows 8 is an acquired taste I guess, and these changes will all seem small once it becomes more of the “norm” in the computer world.  But, if you are not quite ready to take the plunge do not purchase your next computer from a big box store, because they have totally converted.  You will need to buy from a small, local business like ours to still get your system with windows 7 as the operating system.  We sell both laptops and desktops, and can custom tailor them for you or your business.

Let us help you avoid an unnecessary stress in your life, call us today for a no-obligation quote (705)739-3278 (FAST) or email us at kirk@fastsolution.ca

Thanks for reading and please share.

Buying a Computer in Barrie~Fast Solution On-Site Computer Services~Windows 8

As many of us know fear sells newspapers or makes you tune in to the news at 6, but I think people are looking for some good news, in fact I think we are at a breaking point where some of us need it.  So I will not pretend to be an expert about what David knows, but here are a couple of key points that I took away from a fabulous speaker.

As someone who used to work in an industry directly impacted by housing starts, I was very interested in the data that has been collected over the past several years (in fact back to 1973) on the trends that have occurred and where we are now.  In a nutshell, the production of new houses in the U.S starting in 2006 was approximately 500000, which far exceeded the amount of demand.  This unfortunately continued until 2008 (thus accelerating the recession and decrease in prices in the U.S.)  In 2012 that number shrank to 100000.  However, now the demand is growing stronger and the prices of homes are rising.  New Homes will therefore start to increase as well, and thus people will be out buying everything you need to fill them.

He also addressed the auto industry.  In 2006, in the U.S, light vehicle sales were at approximately 17.5 million.  That dropped dramatically in the end of 2008 to approximately 9 million.  The good news is that in September of 2012 that number is back up to 15 million!

Both of these indicators are terrific news because it means that we are getting back on track.  But you will argue that this is all U.S data.  Well, I wasn’t looking for an argument but here is my reply, you cheeky blog reader.  The U.S still remains (as of 2011 anyway) where approximately 75% of our exports go.  So when they are doing well, then so will we.  Like it or not their economic well being is vital to us.

So there is your good news for a Friday.  Maybe this news will help you decide to buy that new house, new car, or new computer from Fast Solution!  Either way, if we don’t spend beyond our means, these good news indicators could hit us all soon, and you never know, maybe they will report it on the news one day.

Thanks for reading, remember to share, in life and this blog.

Computer Repair Barrie~Fast Solution On-Site Computer Services~ A Great News Story!

If you are an avid reader of my blog, you will see a common theme of how much I enjoy being a Rotarian.  This was my first full year as a member of the Kempenfelt Rotary Club, and I have to say that being a member exceeded my expectations greatly.  We do several fund-raising events to support charities in Barrie, but I think it was the lesser publicized events that hit me hardest.  The most important, as well as most meaningful to me so far was when we worked on the backyard for a family with a daughter that has cancer.  I have written about the entire two days in this blog if you care to read more.  This is the video that was shot showing our work.

However, beyond the volunteering, the one thing that this group has afforded me is to meet several like-minded individuals that share a lot of the same ideals that I do.  The friendships that I have made since joining, have turned out to be incredible, and I am very excited to get to know the rest of the group that I have not had the opportunity to.

Yes 2012 was tough as far as the economy goes, but I found that whenever I was troubled about a financial issue I would think about my family.  How they are all healthy, how they were doing well in school, and how my kids are growing into strong, confident little women, and it set my mind at ease.  Almost like hitting a reality reset button.  Putting things into perspective that mean the most.

So to close, I prefer to not do a “resolution” of sorts, but more of a goal setting.  My goal is to meet more of you that I do not know as well as I should.  The goal of growing my business again in new avenues with new products.  And the continuing goal that no matter what happens, my family comes first again.  Because my goals will only be cherished if I have my family to share them with.

Here is hoping that you meet all of your goals in 2013! Thanks for reading.

Computer Repair Barrie~Fast Solution On-Site Computer Services~2012 in the rearview

Every time the Joneses need anything significant, they all pack in the car and head to Toronto to get the best deal.  They visit big box stores, and they “shop until they drop” and eventually they feel satisfied that whatever they need, has been achieved at a better cost because they got it from a large chain of stores that couldn’t possibly steer them wrong.  They continue to do this for years.  Eventually, their kids grow old enough to want a job.  So they scour the streets of Barrie, resumes in hand, and tirelessly look for that job they need to give them some spending money.  Unfortunately for them, their family has given their discretionary income to Toronto businesses, or U.S based chains, that do not reinvest in their communities, so the kids will have to wait until they can buy a car and commute 1 hour each way just to make some money.  Sound impossible? Think that some business will miraculously come to Barrie if its own citizens aren’t supportive?  And not to pick on them, but how many people do you think Tim Hortons and dollar stores can employ?

The economy is at an impossibly fragile state right now, but there is a simple solution, and what better time to talk about it then before the holiday season.  Imagine that if we shop locally what we could achieve.  So the first response is normally, “well it costs more to go to a local shop then say Wal-Mart”.  Yes it does.  But it is marginally higher.  And unfortunately, if we shop at a Wal-Mart type store because money is tight, this will only make it worse.  The more we contribute money to “the big box stores” the less opportunity we are leaving for our kids.  That isn’t your concern?  Well consider this.  If your kids can only get jobs outside Barrie, they will need a vehicle, which needs insurance.  If they don’t have money, which I assume since they haven’t worked, you will have to help with that.

If you want to do your part,here is a short list of local companies that you could visit for your holiday purchases.  Keep your money in Barrie and your business community will be there when you need them.

Napoleon Fireplaces.  This is a company that operates with 375,000+ square feet of manufacturing space, over 400 employees and is North America’s largest privately owned manufacturer of wood and gas fireplaces, free standing stoves, inserts, quality gas and charcoal grills, barbecue accessories and patio heaters.

Try That. They refer to themselves as an “experience company” because if you can dream it, they will make it happen.  From everything from Hot air balloon rides, to get aways, to wine tours to whale watching, Try That is the best place to find that gift for the hardest people to buy for.

Michael Smiley Jewelers. Hand crafted jewellery made by a life long Barrie resident.  When you are making a purchase like this, it is nice to know you can see the face that stands behind their work.

Various local health and wellness companies. Gift cards can be purchased by almost all of these, and they are services we all use or want to use… The Healing Oasis, Health Partner Professionals, and Moksha Yoga just to name a few.

Do you like fresh seafood around the holidays? Johnny’s Fresh Fish and Seafood Market is locally owned and operated.  The wide variety he has is unmatched in Barrie and the prices are very reasonable. You can taste the difference and so will your guests.

And of course Fast Solution On-Site computer services for either gift certificates or to purchase a new computer.  We offer only the best in desktop, in shop built computers that will outperform the big box stores.  And if you have a warranty issue you deal with us not some call center.

To end, I realize Barrie is not the same size as San Francisco, but look at this research because it will give you the vision I was trying to give in this blog, expressed in numerical form. “ The 2007 San Francisco Retail Diversity Study illustrated that if only 10% of residential spending was redirected from large franchises to local businesses, the city would yield $192 million in the form of an economic boost, and almost 1,300 new jobs would be created. Inversely, a 10% change in spending redirected from local business to the national franchise stores would force nearly $200 million out of the local economy, creating approximately a $392 million difference.”

Computer Services Barrie~Fast Solution On-Site Computer Services~Thinking outside the “box”

If you are a reader of my blogs you will know that I am a Rotarian.  I am very proud to be and enjoy the comradery and fellowship that it provides while we are giving back to the community that supports us.  In today’s breakfast meeting two initiatives were brought up that will directly support Barrie, and at the same time, will bring some joy to the people who purchase/participate in them.

The first is “colt for a day”.  Basically, for $85 your child (or niece, nephew etc.) receives a Barrie Colts jersey, an autograph and picture session with some of the Barrie Colts, a full hockey game with members of the Barrie Colts on the ice, and pizza and pop afterwards!  This years date is January 27th 2013.  Here is the link (this is being updated as we speak so it may still have the 2012 info on it, but you will see that it sold out…it does every year).  http://www.coltfortheday.com/ Speaking as someone who participated in it last year as a coach, and had two kids that participated, it is the event of the year for kids who like hockey.

The second is for the adults in your life.  My friend, and fellow Rotarian Scott Cooper has started an initiative to help a family out in Barrie that has a sick son.  He is 5 and has Leukaemia.  Their bills are becoming overwhelming, so he decided to donate his art and his time to make their Christmas a little brighter.  He is donating 100% of the proceeds to any of his photo that you choose here  https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.497305153621426.121269.167851523233459&type=1 mounted on canvas in the size you choose.  He is a tremendous photographer, so while you are helping out a family that needs it, you also get to look at some amazing shots captured through the eye of a talented guy.  Perfect for someone who has everything.

If you need more information about either of these please feel free to email me at kirk@fastsolution.ca I think you will truly get the holiday spirit by buying either or both of these gifts, and maybe in the meantime you will get the gift of a little “family time” I know I could use it!

Computer Repair Barrie~Fast Solution On-Site Computer Services~Colt for a day!