OfficeMax offers small-business computer users remote tech support

Office Solutions, Jul 2007

Office superstore OfficeMax has launched a new advanced remote tech support service called ctrlcenter. Available at all OfficeMax stores nationwide or online at officemax.com or ctrl-center.com, OfficeMax ctrlcenter targets small businesses, home-office workers, and other PC users, offering them a 24/7 remote alternative to the slower and more costly mobile tech support services.

Since 90 percent of computer problems can be solved remotely, without the intrusion and incremental cos: of an on-site visit by a technician, the new OfficeMax ctrlcenter provides remote support for PCs and consumer electronic devices, ranging from digital cameras and smart phones to Palm Pilots and iPods. Customers can access the support via the Internet through a broadband connection or by phone.

To allow its customers to test drive the new ctrlcenter services, OfficeMax is offering any consumer visiting the ctrlcenter Website a free PC Checkup (a $49.99 value) that includes a custom computer analysis that identifies viruses or spyware, warns about limits on memory or disk space, and assesses security vulnerabilities for wireless networks. A free PC Checkup is also available by visiting any OfficeMax store and obtaining a free PC Checkup CD. Additional for-fee services may be recommended based on check-up results.

OfficeMax will initially offer eight ctrlcenter tech support services, ranging in price from $50 to $500. Services include Set-Up services for new PCs, wireless networks, peripherals, and software; Fit-It services PC Restoration and General Technology Help Session; and Protect-It services PC Guardian and Unlimited Held Desk Support.