Computer logic goes a long way

From inception up until the setting up process, how did you start your business?

Whilst a Telstra (former OTC) technical staff and working shift-work together with another colleague we decided to commence an IT business working from home in a part-time capacity.

We started with fixing power supplies later moved into PC’s and eventually moved into all hardware/software solutions.

After approximately 3-4 years working from home and building up the business I accepted redundancy from Telstra and purchased a commercial building on the proviso that we transfer the business to the new premises.

We kept the same contact details e.g. telephone/fax number and maintained most of the clients as our services were an “all rounder PC solutions.”

How is business currently?

The business is doing fine at the moment, only because it has became a tool for each household and a necessity in today’s society.

What is your vision for the future of your business?

In the short term there are no plans to expand, however in the long term I may consider it especially once my son comes on board and take over.

How has running a computer business changed over the last 10 years?

It definitely changed considerably, both in hardware and software.

Repairing a computer these days is uneconomical. There are tax advantages purchasing a new computer every few years.

In software installations and in consultancy the business has expanded with the technological changes that have occurred during the last decade and it is the way to go.

Did your Greek-Australian background help you or impede you during your early days?

In the early days my Greek-Australian background helped me considerably setting up the initial customer base as 80% of the businesses emanated from Greek customers.

I would assist with the initial PC set-up in the Greek language and at the time I was the only one qualified and had the know how to resolve their issues on a day to day basis.

What would you say stands out as the comparative advantage of your business over the competition?

In today’s environment having a business set up in a building that I own is a huge advantage – the running expenses are minimised and I do not have to fork out huge amounts in rent on a regular basis.

The suppliers that I work with are on credit and I settle accounts once the work is completed and settled on my end.

Stringent credit control measures have to be implemented and followed at all times to ensure that cash flow does not become an issue.