What's the next big thing for pc tech?

[mikehende]

Aside from windows 10 which should give tech's a temporary boost, what's the next big thing in technology a pc tech can get into to increase business?

[Plastic Nev]

Being on the outside of the computer repair business so can possibly be more objective about it, I see that this sort of business has had its heyday and is slowly losing ground.

Mobile devices, which are both fairly cheap and in a lot of cases not worth trying to repair are taking over the markets, other larger devices such as home computers are becoming more reliable in both hardware and software applications.

OK, the need for technicians will never totally go away, however the fact this forum and many others are going quieter than it used to be tells that story.

To be honest, If I was running a computer and general technical repair shop, I would be seriously considering converting to a fast food joint and installing cooking equipment. :)

[AWS]

That's a good question. I wonder if there is anything left that can be done with the PC platform.

 

I am watching companies start the transition to mobile devices with custom apps from desktop PC's. I still think PC's will be here for few more years, but, I do see the day when they are thought of fondly like the old Amiga and Commodore systems.

[AWS]

OK, the need for technicians will never totally go away, however the fact this forum and many others are going quieter than it used to be tells that story.

Techs will adapt and change. At my company we are done with our laptop replacements for field personnel. The new mobile system with iPads and iPhones is fully operational.

 

Forums in general are on the decline. Sites such as Reddit and it's many clones are taking over because they are more mobile friendly than the current forum platform. Responsive designs have helped, but, in reality until forum software adapts the decline will continue. Speaking of this site I have a plan to adapt to the changes. In the future I see new software and a focus on the new mobile world which is still an infant.

[PseFrank]

My repair business is only small and my customers are mostly home users who are at the lower end of the salary scale, so I spend alot of time trying to get a few more years use out of older PC's without spending much cash. I am hopeful that situation will continue for a few years yet.

 

However... I find myself more and more giving tuition to people on how to achieve what they want to do on their computers. I used to do this sort of thing as a PR exercise, but now often charge a modest fee for written or prolonged instructions. Once again, I hope that this will be the case for some years to come.

I find that older people are not so interested in the latest tech stuff, they just want to be able to carry on doing what they've always done. Some people don't like change.

[DSTM]

The scene is rapidly changing as can be clearly seen by the down turn of members wanting computer help on Tech Forums.

People are changing to mobile at an alarming rate. They have contracts with their providor and any probs they don't use Tech sites.

Every man and his dog has an IPhone or Pad. It's like a third arm.

The large Computer Shop I buy from now only have two Techies in the computer repair section where 4 yrs ago they had six.

That is a good indication the times are a changing.

[mikehende]

Thanks guys, I have know for a while now that pc repair is on the blink and that mobile is taking over, thing is, what can a pc repair tech get into to survive? Any ideas recommendations please? I had thought of cellphone repair but that is way too finicky for me, I won't have the patience for that having to do micro soldering and all of that.

[allheart55 Cindy E]

I haven't really seen my business slowing down. I still get the same amount of repairs that I have been getting for the past few years.

[mikehende]

Well, super glad for you Cindy but unfortunately most techs are not that lucky and remember that a lot of this has to do with location and competition.

[allheart55 Cindy E]

I guess my answer wasn't very helpful. Sorry, Mike.

[Plastic Nev]

There is still a large number of people who have and use computers, even though they have mobile devices as well which can do quite a lot of tasks that computers do. However, things are becoming more reliable both in hardware and software and that does include mobile devices as well.

My close friend as a perfect example was using the computer, a windows 7 machine, the other day when I called round to see him, yet when we are out for a beer, he keeps in touch with family members on his mobile via facebook or other internet services, as well as checking a map via Google maps etc. Computers, either desktop or laptop aren't dead yet.

 

As a side note as most will know I am under various doctors and the local hospital, I was quite surprised to see in a very modern and up to date recently built hospital environment, that most systems are still running Windows XP. :omg: