Hate reading tech manuals? Gizmo to the rescue

/**/ Gizmo is a new Australian start up that is tapping the booming market of frustrated home computer users who are not sure where to turn for tech support.The company is offering both in-home and telephone support for a range of tech issues including setting up and maintaining computer systems, home networking, peripherals and media/entertainment centres. CEO Brett Chenoweth has done his homework to get Gizmo's business model and service offering right. He claims that 97 percent of Australians try to solve tech problems for free by tapping the IT skills of someone they know, but even the three percent who currently spend money for support represents a AU$500 million 'cottage' industry -- one that is now serviced mainly by small independent operators with varying levels of service delivery. To meet the out-of-office-hours needs of home users, Gizmo phone and in-home consultation services are available from 8am to 10pm weekdays and 9am to 6pm on weekends. If it is determined that you need in-home support, you will be able to book next-day service at a specific appointment time. At launch, Gizmo is offering in-home service in Sydney only, but the company expects its qualified technical staff of 12 to triple by Christmas as the company expands to other Australian metropolitan centres. Telephone support, however, is now available nationwide by calling 1300 275 449. From its "We've read the manuals" tag line to its flat rate pricing structures, Gizmo's marketing plan strives to demystify tech support. Phone support costs a Flat Rate of AU$60, but if your query takes less than 10 minutes, a Quick Fix AU$20 rate applies. In-home services range in price from AU$120 to AU$240 and pre-packaged 'Gizmopacks' like Network Me!, Upgrade Me!, and Tune Me Up! give customers a clear idea of what they will pay for a specified sets of services. Gizmo offers a 'no fix, no fee' guarantee, however if the in-home technician finds your solution requires purchasing new hardware or software, you'll be up for a flat fee of $AU50, which can be used as a credit against a return visit for installation. For more information on Gizmo services and pricing or to make a support booking on-line, see Gizmo's web site on www.gizmo.com.au.

Hate reading tech manuals? Gizmo to the rescue

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