Before you get into an annual maintenance contract for your computer system with a company, here are a few things to consider:

a) Check the company's clientele. If necessary talk to some of them.

b) Verify how long they have been in the business.

c) Ask them at what level they provide repairs, whether it's at the board level, chip level etc.

d) Check their response time.

e) See if they are capable of providing stand by systems of the kind you possess.

f ) Are they abreast with the latest technological developments.

g) Check their manpower and infrastructural strength.

h) Take all agreements in writing. .