David and I are so impressed with the service we received from Friendly Computers! After he dropped off our laptop, we expected to get it back in a week or two. Former “Geek Squad” victims – sorry about that!! When you called and said it was ready the next day, we were very happy. Thank you for taking the time to talk to me about my new business and for inviting me to BNI. I hope to make the Networking Mixer in February. We so appreciate how Jaysen took the time to explain our computer issues to us and how we completely understood what you were doing during the entire process. We took our computers to other places in the past and have always been unhappy. We know now who we can trust! You guys are great!
By the way – thanks for supporting David in his business too! Not everyone appreciates a good electrician!
-from Shea
Monday, May 19, 2008
Computer Problems Fixed
It’s been a week since you were here to have a look at my Dell laptop. I’ve shut down and restarted the computer multiple times, and so far, I haven’t had any problems with it at all. Plus, I’ve used the flash drive twice to back up data, and to this point, the computer doesn’t seem to think that I failed to turn off the device before removing it. I may be jinxing myself, but as of now, my problems seem to be fixed. I’m grateful.
-from Bill of Columbia
-from Bill of Columbia
Friendly Service
The Friendly service was excellent. Matt was right on time (a little early) and did a very good job. New hard drive on one computer with a transfer of pictures and film. Plus he left the old drive so we could remove the music files if we want to. He also diagnosed another computer for me and hooked me up with an awesome flat screen. In addition to all that he took and old computer and screen to recycle.
He also showed me how to download a free Word Program since the Microsoft one got lost in the transfer because I couldn’t find the correct disc.
My only question is, do I have to purchase the spy ware protection he installed after the initial period wears off? I haven’t done that before.
Thanks again,
I would have no problem recommending your company’s services.
-from Maggie of Oregon
He also showed me how to download a free Word Program since the Microsoft one got lost in the transfer because I couldn’t find the correct disc.
My only question is, do I have to purchase the spy ware protection he installed after the initial period wears off? I haven’t done that before.
Thanks again,
I would have no problem recommending your company’s services.
-from Maggie of Oregon
Purple People
Hey purple people… Not sure to whom this should go, but wanted to compliment your Omaha, Nebraska team. Great guys, incredible service and anything else you’d like to say that’s good – no, make that great! I’ve been a raving evangelist for you for a couple of years now, and Rob and the rest of the Omaha team keep giving me reasons to continue doing so. I’d love to offer the same level of service to you. Check out my company at www.swagville.com. Let me know how I can help! Looking forward…
-from Jared of Omaha, NE
-from Jared of Omaha, NE
Computer Problems
Just a note to say that your man who came to my home business to work on my computer problems was outstanding. He really knew his stuff and went out of his way to make sure I was up and running before he left. He’s a fine young man and you should give him a raise!
I’m still battling with Dell over my new purchase and may give you a call to get set up. But I’ll know more when I get all the parts.
Thanks again and I have your little car magnet on my fridge.
-from Loren
I’m still battling with Dell over my new purchase and may give you a call to get set up. But I’ll know more when I get all the parts.
Thanks again and I have your little car magnet on my fridge.
-from Loren
Professional & Friendly
The fellow who came here should be commended for his professionalism and friendly personality. I hope I won’t need your services too often….but you have to know I will recommend your company to my friends.
Thanks
-from Kathy of Nevada
Thanks
-from Kathy of Nevada
Keep Up The Good Work
Earl’s computer is working great. Thanks for the great fix! Keep up the good work.
-from Susan of Maryland
-from Susan of Maryland
Franchise focuses on friendliness
By Mark Hansel / STAFF WRITER
A locally owned computer repair franchise founded in a college dorm room has become a national leader in the on-site computer service industry.
Steve Ward founded Friendly Computers in 1992 when he was still a student at Brigham Young University. Two years later, Ward moved the fledgling business to the garage of his family’s home in Las Vegas and his father, Verlan (Big Mike) Ward, and brothers Bryan, Timothy and Micheal Ward joined the company.
Friendly Computers opened its flagship store on Rainbow Boulevard soon afterward and began selling franchises in 2000. The company has experienced steady growth, but took a big leap forward with its recent purchase of the Computer Renaissance chain. It has 132 franchises in 39 states and plans to increase that number to 500 in the next five years. As part of the company’s growth strategy, Friendly will shift to a fully in-store business model. Currently, more than 60 of its existing franchise units are home-based.
“We’re now the largest retail computer repair franchise in the country,” said Bryan Ward, company president. “We’re changing the face of the computer industry from geek to chic.”
The company provides a full range of services including computer repair, network setup and connectivity assistance and new and used, equipment sales. New computers are custom-built for customers on site.
“We build a Friendly Computer, hand built,” Ward says. “We show a demo out on the floor, but we do not stock a machine ready for you to take out the door.”
Friendly also offers service contracts for its own models and maintenance or service agreements for units it repairs. The compnay charges $88 an hour for service calls, which Ward says is about half the cost of many big-box chains, and customers can also buy a maintenance agreement that includes a block of hours at a reduced rate.
The company recently partnered with Texas-based Warrantech to offer warranty services on a host of additional products, including X-box and PlayStation. Some locations also have authorized printer repair services for major companies such as Brother and Canon.
Ward says the company has thrived at a time when some big-box companies have struggled because it has stayed true to its core, such as customer service, value and community relations.
“We like to keep our stores very small, and we usually stay in 1,000 square feet or less,” Ward says. “We work off service here. We don’t put 700 machines out front because that’s too confusing.”
The demand for on-site computer repair services has exploded, according to Ward. The emphasis on attentive, personalized service that is available 24/7 has helped Friendly take a leadership role in this rapidly growing sector. “You’ll always get a person on the phone when you call us,” Ward said.
Although the family has always believed in the concept, it knew there were no guarantees in the business world. In the early years, Friendly was a family business in every sense of the word. Big Mike and the brothers did most of the legwork, putting up fliers in grocery stores, cold calling and responding to customers.
Lenora Ward, the family matriarch who died in 1997, answered the phones. The corporation that controls the franchise system, Big L’s, was named in her honor.
Ward admits the first few years were tough but said the principles that guided the family then are still in place today.
“The first 20 franchises, we still weren’t sure it was going to work, but when we got to 50, we knew,” Ward said.
The company recently became affiliated with Soldiers’ Angels to help provide computer equipment to injured veterans and also offers a free Internet monitoring program.
Purple Dude Internet Watch helps parents promote safe surfing online by supervising the way their children use the Internet.
The company has a high-profile spokesman, former NFL quarterback Ty Detmer, but even that affiliation has a family connection. Detmer is a longtime family friend and a former classmate of Steve Ward’s at BYU.
Friendly Computers is looking to add franchisees in just about every market, Bryan Ward said.
The franchise fee is $25,000 and the total investment is about $219,000 with a royalty fee of 5 percent. The company provides training, and teritories are determined by ZIP code and limited to 150,000 residents.
A locally owned computer repair franchise founded in a college dorm room has become a national leader in the on-site computer service industry.
Steve Ward founded Friendly Computers in 1992 when he was still a student at Brigham Young University. Two years later, Ward moved the fledgling business to the garage of his family’s home in Las Vegas and his father, Verlan (Big Mike) Ward, and brothers Bryan, Timothy and Micheal Ward joined the company.
Friendly Computers opened its flagship store on Rainbow Boulevard soon afterward and began selling franchises in 2000. The company has experienced steady growth, but took a big leap forward with its recent purchase of the Computer Renaissance chain. It has 132 franchises in 39 states and plans to increase that number to 500 in the next five years. As part of the company’s growth strategy, Friendly will shift to a fully in-store business model. Currently, more than 60 of its existing franchise units are home-based.
“We’re now the largest retail computer repair franchise in the country,” said Bryan Ward, company president. “We’re changing the face of the computer industry from geek to chic.”
The company provides a full range of services including computer repair, network setup and connectivity assistance and new and used, equipment sales. New computers are custom-built for customers on site.
“We build a Friendly Computer, hand built,” Ward says. “We show a demo out on the floor, but we do not stock a machine ready for you to take out the door.”
Friendly also offers service contracts for its own models and maintenance or service agreements for units it repairs. The compnay charges $88 an hour for service calls, which Ward says is about half the cost of many big-box chains, and customers can also buy a maintenance agreement that includes a block of hours at a reduced rate.
The company recently partnered with Texas-based Warrantech to offer warranty services on a host of additional products, including X-box and PlayStation. Some locations also have authorized printer repair services for major companies such as Brother and Canon.
Ward says the company has thrived at a time when some big-box companies have struggled because it has stayed true to its core, such as customer service, value and community relations.
“We like to keep our stores very small, and we usually stay in 1,000 square feet or less,” Ward says. “We work off service here. We don’t put 700 machines out front because that’s too confusing.”
The demand for on-site computer repair services has exploded, according to Ward. The emphasis on attentive, personalized service that is available 24/7 has helped Friendly take a leadership role in this rapidly growing sector. “You’ll always get a person on the phone when you call us,” Ward said.
Although the family has always believed in the concept, it knew there were no guarantees in the business world. In the early years, Friendly was a family business in every sense of the word. Big Mike and the brothers did most of the legwork, putting up fliers in grocery stores, cold calling and responding to customers.
Lenora Ward, the family matriarch who died in 1997, answered the phones. The corporation that controls the franchise system, Big L’s, was named in her honor.
Ward admits the first few years were tough but said the principles that guided the family then are still in place today.
“The first 20 franchises, we still weren’t sure it was going to work, but when we got to 50, we knew,” Ward said.
The company recently became affiliated with Soldiers’ Angels to help provide computer equipment to injured veterans and also offers a free Internet monitoring program.
Purple Dude Internet Watch helps parents promote safe surfing online by supervising the way their children use the Internet.
The company has a high-profile spokesman, former NFL quarterback Ty Detmer, but even that affiliation has a family connection. Detmer is a longtime family friend and a former classmate of Steve Ward’s at BYU.
Friendly Computers is looking to add franchisees in just about every market, Bryan Ward said.
The franchise fee is $25,000 and the total investment is about $219,000 with a royalty fee of 5 percent. The company provides training, and teritories are determined by ZIP code and limited to 150,000 residents.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Company Profile
Since it was founded in 1992, Friendly Computers has become a leader in the rapidly-growing on-site computer service industry. Largely through positive word-of-mouth, Friendly Computers has grown from a one-man operation to a network with more than 80 franchises operating across the country.
What We Do
Friendly Computers helps clients repair, maintain and upgrade computer systems on-site, at business and at home. We can also custom-build computers to ensure clients are only paying for the features and functions they want and need. Together with our network of franchisees, we have helped thousands of clients with:
Computer Diagnostics and Repair
Wired and Wireless Networking
Database Design
Computer Upgrades
Custom-Built Systems
Service Contracts
Printer and Typewriter Repair
We offer on-site help with any computer need. No problem is too big or too small.
Our certified professionals are ready to help with anything, from a simple software installation to full network support. We also sell computer software, parts, and custom-built systems.
Corporate Philosophy
Our corporate philosophy centers on you, the customer. We have found that once a customer finds a computer company they trust, they remain with that company. We realize this and strive to put our customer’s needs above all. As big as we’ve grown, we’re still a family-run enterprise. Friendly, personalized service is what sets us apart.
The Future
As the number of computer users has exploded during the last decade, so have the threats to productivity, at home and in the office. More computers than ever before are getting infected with viruses, worms, Trojan Horses and Spyware. Computer users are desperately seeking solutions when these glitches occur.
Demand for on-site computer repair services has exploded. With its emphasis on attentive, personalized service, Friendly Computers has taken a leadership role in this rapidly-growing sector. Our business has grown dramatically, and we’re just getting started. If you would like to play a part in our future growth, take a closer look at our franchise opportunities.
Code of Ethics
Recommend corrective and maintenance services and explain to the customer which of these are required to correct existing problems and which are for preventative maintenance.
Offer the customer a price estimate for work to be performed.
Obtain prior authorization for all work to be done in writing or by other means satisfactory to the customer.
Make every effort to keep the customer informed about appointments and completion of deadlines.
Complete an itemized invoice of components and services performed.
Furnish the customer with information on any warranties covering components or services.
Exercise reasonable care for the customer’s property while it is being serviced.
Attempt to fix the customer’s problem the first time.
Maintain a system for fair settlement of customer complaints.
Cooperate with established consumer complaint mediation authorities.
Uphold the high standards of our profession and seek to correct any and all abuses within the computer service industry.
Posted in Computer Repair. No Comments »
What We Do
Friendly Computers helps clients repair, maintain and upgrade computer systems on-site, at business and at home. We can also custom-build computers to ensure clients are only paying for the features and functions they want and need. Together with our network of franchisees, we have helped thousands of clients with:
Computer Diagnostics and Repair
Wired and Wireless Networking
Database Design
Computer Upgrades
Custom-Built Systems
Service Contracts
Printer and Typewriter Repair
We offer on-site help with any computer need. No problem is too big or too small.
Our certified professionals are ready to help with anything, from a simple software installation to full network support. We also sell computer software, parts, and custom-built systems.
Corporate Philosophy
Our corporate philosophy centers on you, the customer. We have found that once a customer finds a computer company they trust, they remain with that company. We realize this and strive to put our customer’s needs above all. As big as we’ve grown, we’re still a family-run enterprise. Friendly, personalized service is what sets us apart.
The Future
As the number of computer users has exploded during the last decade, so have the threats to productivity, at home and in the office. More computers than ever before are getting infected with viruses, worms, Trojan Horses and Spyware. Computer users are desperately seeking solutions when these glitches occur.
Demand for on-site computer repair services has exploded. With its emphasis on attentive, personalized service, Friendly Computers has taken a leadership role in this rapidly-growing sector. Our business has grown dramatically, and we’re just getting started. If you would like to play a part in our future growth, take a closer look at our franchise opportunities.
Code of Ethics
Recommend corrective and maintenance services and explain to the customer which of these are required to correct existing problems and which are for preventative maintenance.
Offer the customer a price estimate for work to be performed.
Obtain prior authorization for all work to be done in writing or by other means satisfactory to the customer.
Make every effort to keep the customer informed about appointments and completion of deadlines.
Complete an itemized invoice of components and services performed.
Furnish the customer with information on any warranties covering components or services.
Exercise reasonable care for the customer’s property while it is being serviced.
Attempt to fix the customer’s problem the first time.
Maintain a system for fair settlement of customer complaints.
Cooperate with established consumer complaint mediation authorities.
Uphold the high standards of our profession and seek to correct any and all abuses within the computer service industry.
Posted in Computer Repair. No Comments »
Computer Repair Services
No Problem Too Big or Too Small
Most computer systems are a jumble of hardware add-ons and software plug-ins. Try to call a manufacturer, and it’s always somebody else’s problem.
At Friendly Computers, we have 13 years experience diagnosing and fixing glitches large and small.
Don’t waste another minute on hold. Call us at 1-888-PCFRIEND (723-7436), or find a location here.
Posted in Computer Repair. No Comments »
Most computer systems are a jumble of hardware add-ons and software plug-ins. Try to call a manufacturer, and it’s always somebody else’s problem.
At Friendly Computers, we have 13 years experience diagnosing and fixing glitches large and small.
Don’t waste another minute on hold. Call us at 1-888-PCFRIEND (723-7436), or find a location here.
Posted in Computer Repair. No Comments »
Upgrades
Upgrade Your Computer’s Performance
Need a gaming machine or a fast server? We can give you the turbo-charged boost that you’re looking for. You can also save with our custom-built machines.
Just need a Windows XP upgrade on your old system? We can do that, too. For far less than the cost of a new computer, you’ll get a clean, stable operating system without data loss.
Call Friendly Computers at 866-697-FMCS (3627), or find a location here.
Posted in Computer Repair, Computer Upgrades. No Comments »
Need a gaming machine or a fast server? We can give you the turbo-charged boost that you’re looking for. You can also save with our custom-built machines.
Just need a Windows XP upgrade on your old system? We can do that, too. For far less than the cost of a new computer, you’ll get a clean, stable operating system without data loss.
Call Friendly Computers at 866-697-FMCS (3627), or find a location here.
Posted in Computer Repair, Computer Upgrades. No Comments »
Database Design
Electrify Your Paperwork. Time is money. Paper-based systems waste time and hurt customer service.
Want to cut through the clutter? Let us get you up and running with a cost-effective database design based on Microsoft Access or SQL Server. Already have a database? Optimize your investment with an efficient, secure and cost-effective solution that brings your database to the Web.
We can handle Web-based databases using PHP and MySQL or LAN database applications. We tailor our solutions to your business needs.
Call Friendly Computers at 866-697-FMCS (3627), or find a location here.
Posted in Computer Repair, Computer Upgrades, Database Design. No Comments »
Want to cut through the clutter? Let us get you up and running with a cost-effective database design based on Microsoft Access or SQL Server. Already have a database? Optimize your investment with an efficient, secure and cost-effective solution that brings your database to the Web.
We can handle Web-based databases using PHP and MySQL or LAN database applications. We tailor our solutions to your business needs.
Call Friendly Computers at 866-697-FMCS (3627), or find a location here.
Posted in Computer Repair, Computer Upgrades, Database Design. No Comments »
Networking
Wired or Wireless, We’ll Get You Connected
You need your computers to play nicely together. We can help.Wired or wireless, conduit or surface mount, we have the experience to get the job done—whether you’re linking up two computers or 200.
Call Friendly Computers at 866-697-FMCS (3627), or find a location here.
Posted in Computer Repair, Computer Upgrades, Database Design, Networking. No Comments »
You need your computers to play nicely together. We can help.Wired or wireless, conduit or surface mount, we have the experience to get the job done—whether you’re linking up two computers or 200.
Call Friendly Computers at 866-697-FMCS (3627), or find a location here.
Posted in Computer Repair, Computer Upgrades, Database Design, Networking. No Comments »
Custom Built Systems
We custom-build our computers using high quality parts and absolutely no markups on hardware.We can build you a machine with a 2.8 Ghz processor for less than $1,000. That includes Windows XP, MS Works, and Norton Antivirus. We can upgrade your older system or build you a new, high quality system to your exact specifications. What else would you expect from a full-service computer company?
Availability and pricing may vary, please inquire with your local franchise for further information on custom-built systems.Call Friendly Computers at 866-697-FMCS (3627), or find a location here.
Posted in Computer Repair, Computer Upgrades, Custom Built Systems, Database Design, Networking. No Comments »
Availability and pricing may vary, please inquire with your local franchise for further information on custom-built systems.Call Friendly Computers at 866-697-FMCS (3627), or find a location here.
Posted in Computer Repair, Computer Upgrades, Custom Built Systems, Database Design, Networking. No Comments »
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Wired and Wireless Networking
Wired or Wireless, We’ll Get You Connected
You need your computers to play nicely together. We can help.Wired or wireless, conduit or surface mount, we have the experience to get the job done—whether you’re linking up two computers or 200.
Call Friendly Computers at 866-697-FMCS (3627), or find a location here.
You need your computers to play nicely together. We can help.Wired or wireless, conduit or surface mount, we have the experience to get the job done—whether you’re linking up two computers or 200.
Call Friendly Computers at 866-697-FMCS (3627), or find a location here.
Custom Built Machines
We custom-build our computers using high quality parts and absolutely no markups on hardware.We can build you a machine with a 2.8 Ghz processor for less than $1,000. That includes Windows XP, MS Works, and Norton Antivirus. We can upgrade your older system or build you a new, high quality system to your exact specifications. What else would you expect from a full-service computer company?
Availability and pricing may vary, please inquire with your local franchise for further information on custom-built systems.Call Friendly Computers at 866-697-FMCS (3627), or find a location here.
Availability and pricing may vary, please inquire with your local franchise for further information on custom-built systems.Call Friendly Computers at 866-697-FMCS (3627), or find a location here.
Computer Repair
No Problem Too Big or Too Small! Most computer systems are a jumble of hardware add-ons and software plug-ins. Try to call a manufacturer, and it’s always somebody else’s problem.
At Friendly Computers, we have 13 years experience diagnosing and fixing glitches large and small. You can count on Friendly Computers for all your computer repair needs, contact us now for on-site computer service, in-shop or remote support.
Don’t waste another minute on hold. Call us at 1-888-PCFRIEND (723-7436), or find a location here.
At Friendly Computers, we have 13 years experience diagnosing and fixing glitches large and small. You can count on Friendly Computers for all your computer repair needs, contact us now for on-site computer service, in-shop or remote support.
Don’t waste another minute on hold. Call us at 1-888-PCFRIEND (723-7436), or find a location here.
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