• Gadgets

    Wherefore Art Thou, Tech Support?

    By Tom Conlon Posted on 8.20.2008 5 Comments

    Being a tech consumer is a treacherous endeavor these days. Installing software, upgrading a piece of hardware or even just plugging in a new peripheral is a pursuit wrought with danger. That’s because, as a man named Murphy has us conditioned to believe, something will inevitably go wrong. And when things do go haywire—when Part A won’t play nice with Part B—you’re left trying to figure out just what’s to blame. Is it your operating system? Is it the USB port on your computer? Is it your thingamajig’s firmware?

    8.29.2008 at 04:31pm - Comment by HahnsPCs

    While I agree that the available technologies out there form QUITE the many combos, I would strongly suggest that what is LACKING in the tech support world is a bit of patience, basic troubleshooting skills and the ability to LISTEN!!! Funny as I type this I've been on the phone with HP for the last 90 minutes or so JUST to get some clueless individual there to realize what the simple problem is... Here's a few "to do's" for most tech support folks... 01) LEARN basic troubleshooting skills 02) Shut up and listen! 03) Embrace the technologies you "support" and LEARN more about them and what they DO work with so you are better prepared to do so 04) STOP THE Jargon... You're certainly NOT impressing me as I know all those cool words too... Thing is, I DON'T use them when talking to end-users... I speak English, NOT Techish 05) While Google is a great reference, it TEACHES you nothing, just gives you the answer IF SOMEONE has had the same problem 20 Years in support realm Cheers! Erick



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