Computer poll

[David ilvedson]

> From:          "Jeannie Grassi" <jgrassi@silverlink.net>
> To:            <pianotech@ptg.org>
> Subject:       RE: Computer poll
> Date:          Sun, 21 Jun 1998 17:42:47 -0700
> Reply-to:      pianotech@ptg.org

> Well Jim, I take it you are willing to respond?  Here are the questions: (No
> fair looking on Gina's paper for the correct answers)
> Thank you for offering to help with my informal survey.  In order for me to
> keep all the responses in order, please respond in the order below.  If you
> want, you may intersperse your answers in between my questions.  Otherwise,
> please number them appropriately. Thanks for your participation.
> Jeannie
> 
> 1.	What type of computer do you have (Mac or IBM clone) and what additional
> hardware or peripherals do you use with it?

IBM clone, 200mhz MMX Pentium I with 64 megs of RAM, 17" 
monitor, HP deskjet printer (older but works great),  Mouse 
systems natural keyboard which I like, Kensington Expert Mouse 
roller ball, speakers, 56K modem...
 
> 2.	How long have you been making use of your computer for business purposes?

1990 or so 

 3.	When was the last time you upgraded your system?

I just upgraded to the 200 mhz, MMX, 64 RAM and 56K modem.  I 
have a little shop of Chinese guys who have been making my 
computers since I began with a my old 386.

> 4.	If you use a word processing program, which one is it and what sort of
> things do you use it for?

WORD 97 for Windows.  I use it for letters, newsletter etc.  

> 5.	Do you use your computer for bookkeeping? If so, what program do you use?

Quickbooks PRO, 97
 
> 6.	How do you keep track of customer records?

Piano Service Manager, Dean Reyburns program.  This is strictly 
for scheduling, service records and such.  No bookeeping.

> 7.	Do you send reminders through your computer and, if so, how are these
> lists generated?

I don't do this yet but I want to.  I am busy enough not to have 
to but it would be nice to get rid of the poor 
pianos/customers...

> 8.	In addition to your computer files, do you also use index cards a/o paper
> records to carry with you into the customer's home?

I bring a printed out invoice from Quickbooks and a print out 
from PSM with directions/service records which I update at job 
and update in the computer later.

> 9.	Do you use your computer for billing customers?  Do you print invoices?
> If so which program do you use for these activities?

Quickbooks PRO

> 10.	Do you do such things estimates and  appraisals, etc. from your
> computer?  What program(s) do you use for such reports?

Quickbooks PRO which has and Estimate feature I really like.  It 
is not counted in the accounting until it is accepted and I turn 
it into an invoice with the click of my mouse.

> 11.	Do you publish a newsletter from your computer and what 
method do you use?

This is sporatic but I use Word 97's newsletter wizard
 
> 12.	Do you use a spread sheet for any of the above tasks?

No. 

> 13.	Do you use a program for scheduling appointments a/o a Personal
 Information> Manager?

PSM

> 14.	Do you track shop work and tasks on your computer?

Sort of in PSM and Quickbooks

> 15.	Can you think of any other valuable ways your computer has helped you in
> your piano service business?

Just the organization!
 
> Jeannie Grassi, RPT
> jgrassi@silverlink.net
> Bainbridge Island, WA
> 
> 
> 
David Ilvedson, RPT
Pacifica, CA
ilvey@jps.net