Shopping smart in the high-tech marketplace

Persons in the market for computer products can learn to shop sensibly and make decisions that can be justified to one's supervisor. A 4-step process for evaluating and comparing computer products involves: 1. making a wish list, 2. assigning points to each criterion, 3. assigning a weight to each criterion, and 4. calculating suppliers' scores. A simple grid can be used to assign each criterion and give weights to them. The column of weighted scores for each supplier on the grid is added up for a final rating. The supplier with the highest rating may be the best choice.