Purchasing an ISP is easier when you are informed and confident
If you've completed steps one and two, you now have a select short-list of excellent ISPs that meet your personal needs. It's time to go shopping.
Actually purchasing a plan with your ISP is probably the most exciting part of the buying process, but there is a little work remaining if you want to maximize your purchase potential.
You know what you need and what plans meet those needs, but you still have to decide where you'll buy the plan, and who from. If you do have a couple of items on a final short-list, you'll want to do some additional comparison shopping, so you can find the best deal. You also need to know what kind of final checks to make, and what questions you should ask before you sign on the dotted line or hand over that hard-earned cash.
Get a feel for customer service now before a problem crops up. Do you have a long wait time? Most ISPs give you an estimated wait time when you're on hold. Ask any questions you may have, and gauge how well you feel the agent has helped you. You may also want to ask to be transferred to technical support - ask simple questions about how to install the modem (if you're using DSL) or any other questions you may have. You want to just test out the customer and tech support because you'll likely have to deal with them from time-to-time.
Tip: Take the time to call each of the ISPs, so you know what to expect, especially from customer service.
Choosing a provider
Many factors have an influence when deciding where to buy an internet service plan, and these need to be weighed up; you may have a tight budget, in which case the sellers who offer the best prices will be most attractive to you. Alternatively, you may prefer to deal with a seller who has excellent customer service and employs knowledgeable, friendly and helpful staff. The major factors that need to be considered are presented below:
Choosing a Provider Checklist
- Reputation - time established, fair dealing, complaints record, good name, reviews
- Price - discounts, specials, less for cash, bonus schemes, rebates
- Sweeteners - some sellers are more likely to add items to 'sweeten' the deal
- Extras - check what accessories or other extras are offered with the product
- Customer service - product knowledge, at point-of-sale, after service
- Support - maintenance and repair services offered, troubleshooting and advice
Other considerations:
- Where possible look for members of professional associations or bodies
- A prior relationship with a company can be a big advantage
Once you have factored in all these different considerations, choosing who to buy from often comes down simply to your personal preference. It is important to buy from a reputable, reliable service provider, as this offers you the most protection if something goes wrong.
Tip: Online forums, blogs and review sites are excellent sources for finding out a seller's reputation for good service and fair dealing.
Purchasing a plan, delivery and installation
There is often little to choose from between plans and providers, and small things can make a real difference to your pocket and the satisfaction you gain in your purchase. It's a good idea to anticipate any issues associated with your purchase that might arise either immediately after buying the plan, or in the months and years you will be using - and enjoying - the service.
Many of these issues will only become significant if there is some kind of problem, but it's a good idea to investigate before you make your final purchase. Ask the seller about guarantees and cancellation policies, as these can vary between sellers - some cancellation policies include a re-stocking fee, for collection of a modem or associated materials, for instance. Other factors to consider include the availability of replacement modems or cables, and whether the seller is an authorized repair centre, or can recommend one locally.
Purchase and Aftersales Checklist
- Money back guarantee - unlimited, limited, time frame, what is covered
- Shipping of modems or discs - method, fees, estimated timeframe
- Insurance - for shipping, delivery; cost and exclusions
- Repairs to modem or cable or phone lines - by seller, authorized dealer location, costs (shipping, minimum fees)
- Delivery - available, fees, timeframe, flexibility of delivery times
- Installation - available, fees, professional required
Tip: Even if you can't imagine calling on a guarantee, or having a modem or software professionally installed, do ask the seller about their policies; it's always better to have all the information.
Buying an ISP can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Once you've worked your way through all three steps of the
Buyz123 three step guide you can buy exactly the right ISP for your needs.
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