Ten Minutes with Bob Johnson

Bob Johnson is the owner of Bob Johnson's Computer Stuff, Inc. I recently interviewed Bob and asked a few key questions, the answers to which I thought worthy of sharing. His answers were succinct and show that the products and services the company offers are sorely needed by a plethora of mobile and traditional computer users. Especially those involved in service related industries where operating in cost conscience and harsh environments is the norm. Read on:

When did you start this business and why:

Marisa and I started this business over twelve years ago with the goal of making computers and parts more affordable for consumers. We have grown from that to providing an affordable alternative to the technology challenges our customers face.

What was your first offering, how did you migrate to your current portfolio?

We began selling ink cartridges and computer parts as an e-store. Over time, we have added complete and refurbished computers, repairs and asset management programs in response to our customers changing needs.

So, today, the portfolio includes?

We exited the cartridge business and our focus now is predominantly refurbished rugged and traditional computers, repair services and asset management programs. On the rugged side, our flagship product is the Panasonic Toughbook line.

Why refurbished and why Toughbooks?

Refurbished products afford our customers significant savings – up to 80% of the cost of new. Also, the refurbishment business supports a green environment. As for Toughbooks, even at the end of life, value and performance remain strong.

I get the green point, but say more about value and performance.

Toughbooks are made to last. When refurbished and updated correctly, it is not uncommon for a user to enjoy many years of continued service from a Toughbook. Our model offers an alternative to new so the price/performance point holds its worth.

Why not just refurbish all computers?

We do. It's just that our target markets; police, EMS and mobile users in general can get so much more utility from a Toughbook. Particularly when they are working in harsh or unforgiving environments where cost containment is king.

What kind of warranty do you offer?

We provide a Limited Life Time Warranty. Which means that for thirty days after receipt, we pay for labor and materials should there be a problem. Thereafter, we pay for labor and only charge the customer for our cost of parts.

What about asset management?

This is a program whereby we purchase the customer's aged or retired IT hardware – be it computers, cell phones or peripheral equipment. This program provides a cash inflow which can often help customers their stretch budgets dollars.

What about repairs?

With the exception of Apple, MAC and printers, we repair all major brands. Our pricing is designed with cost conscience and mission critical operations in mind. We are inexpensive and offer a quick turn around time, again, that equals value.

So now you are more than an e-store?

While a lot of our business comes from the Internet, we have a substantial amount of walk-in business at our 10K square foot facility. Also, we are staffed and positioned to provide remote diagnostics and service at the customers location.

Tell me about your Technicians:

Our technicians are certified in areas such as A+, Microsoft and other competencies. Each has broad hands on technical experience from break/fix operations to the help desk. We also encourage and pay for our employees' continued education.

What is your claim to fame?

Price, response time and understanding our customer's priorities, pain points and no-nonsense, easy to understand and implement technology solutions.

What message do you want to leave with our readers?

While no company is perfect at it, for over twelve years we have listened to and demonstrated help in solving our customers computing challenges in a way that saves them money, adds value and transcends itself to the customer's bottom line results.

This interview was conducted by W. Peter Teague, an independent marketing contractor and former Sales & Marketing Manager for Bob Johnson's Computer Stuff, Inc., a leading provider of rugged and traditional laptops, desktops, computer repair services and asset management programs. Visit Bob Johnson's at www.bobjohnson.com or www.usedlaptops.net You can also reach Bob via phone at 1-(877)-202-7788 in Smyrna, Delaware.