Traditionally, consumers would buy laser printers and their consumables from their local high street computer store, but the internet revolution changed buying and selling practices for ever. Both have pros and cons for the prospective buyer which include:
High Street
Pros:
Direct personal contact with and advice from sales assistant.
Ability to see products in real life and compare them directly with the possibility of having them demonstrated.
Convenience factor if product is required quickly.
Cons:
Usually more expensive. Customers invariably pay more because shops have extra overheads and expenses compared to most internet run businesses.
Limited range of choice. The customer often end up buying the ‘best available’ rather than the ‘best printer’ for them and their budgets. Most stores only carry stock for the most common, mainstream products. Customers requiring expensive or specialised models are frequently not catered for.
Despite the best of intentions from well meaning store staff, many customers feel pressurised into making a decision in the store. Remember that many Sales Assistants are on commission.
Internet
Pros:
Ability to research and source from the comfort of your own home.
Significantly cheaper prices.
Whether you wish to buy a printer, consumables or other supplies e.g. envelopes, paper, label, templates, the internet will provide greater choice and the ability to buy the exact product you require.
Deliveries are usually received at your front door within a few days to a week.
The established companies have excellent standards of service and all purchases are safeguarded by strict legislation covering payment, guarantees and returns. Customers are advised always to pay using a credit card.
Amazing bargains can be had from buying from auction sites.
Cons:
Although most internet companies have good or better customer services and advice lines, some customers prefer the ability to talk face to face with a Shop Assistant and see possible products at first hand.
Despite most internet companies having a simple collection and ‘pain free’ return policy on damaged or defective goods, some customers still prefer the option of taking the product back to the store that they bought the item from.
Increasing numbers of savvy customers are making use of both options by initially researching and deciding on the best product online, using their High Street stores to view and check out the product(s) at first hand with possible demonstrations, then returning to the internet in order to purchase the product(s) at a significantly cheaper price. The key to a successful purchase is carrying out due diligence before parting with your money. That way your decision is an informed one and not just guesswork.
