Setting Up a Basic IT System

6. Budgeting for Your System

6.1 One of the first things to budget for are the computers in your business.

• For around £300, you should be able to buy a PC suitable for basic office applications such as word processing, simple accounts, sending email and surfing the Internet.
• For £600, a system will handle all the above and be more powerful, as well as having more extensive sound, graphics and storage capabilities. This could be used for web and print design, or for stock-control systems that juggle large amounts of data.
• For £1,000, you should get high-speed processors, lots of memory and advanced graphics. High-end machines are only necessary for businesses that depend upon processing speed.

6.2 Laptops may be worth the extra money.

• You will typically pay a 20-30 per cent premium for a laptop compared with a desktop PC of similar specification. However, laptops are much more versatile.
• It may be worth issuing laptops as standard in your business, especially if you expect employees to work remotely or on the move.
• See Remote working.

6.3 Dedicated servers cost from £300.

• A basic server may be a false economy. You should expect your server to last several years and stand up to heavy use.
• If you have fewer than five computers, a server may be unnecessary.

6.4 Remember to budget for accessories like printers.

• See Choosing computer accessories.

6.5 Additional costs may include:

• Software.
• Maintenance and support. This may add significantly to intial costs. Check the level of support you get and if there are any hidden charges.
• Training, for you and your staff.
• Cabling and other network costs, if required (eg routers and firewalls).
• Internet access fees.