206 | HOW TO WRITE A BUSINESS PLAN
keep in mind that some businesses have
broken away from both the Windows
and Mac worlds by moving to Linux, a
UNIX-based free operating system. For
more information on the Linux revolution,
consult Linux Online (www.linux.org).
Where Should You Buy a
Computer and Software?
If you’re a novice, you need to know about
your three main sources for buying a
computer system:
• Purchase from a local store. One option
is to buy your computer at a nearby
store, which can hopefully help you
through your learning curve. Many
local computer stores can assemble
a computer to your specifications or
business needs—check your local
yellow pages. Large chains such as Best
Buy and Wal-Mart often have good
prices on computers and software,
but may not offer the same customer
service as smaller stores.
• Mail order from a reseller. The second
option is to buy your computer from
a mail-order house, for example, PC/
Mac Connection or CDW, which resells
computers manufactured by companies
such as Apple, Hewlett-Packard, or
Acer, to name just a few.
• Order from manufacturer. Another
option is to buy your computer directly
from the manufacturer, such as Apple,
Hewlett-Packard, Dell, or Gateway. Most
manufacturers have very good support
and repair policies, but you may have
to ship your system back if you have a
problem.
Some computer stores, and most system
manufacturers (especially through mail-
order), include preinstalled software with
the purchase price or give you a discount
when you buy your computer system.
Useful magazines for selecting com-
puter systems and software include PC
Magazine, PC World, MacWorld, and
MacUser. You may also want to go to
your local bookstore or library to browse
through books written for people who are
buying or using computers.Online Business Resources
Once you sign up with an Internet Service
Provider (ISP) and have access to the
Web, you’ll be able to find information
on virtually any aspect of running a small
business—from raising start-up money
to minimizing the tax bill for a profitable
business, and everything in between.
There are many sites dedicated to small
business issues, often with a particular
focus such as marketing or management.
It’s safe to say that no matter what your
area of interest, you’ll be able to find
information to suit your needs.Should You Go Broadband?
Your choice of ISP is affected by the
speed by which you want to connect to
the Internet. You can connect via dial-up