Tourists often shop for a "package deal" — like the cruise that includes airline tickets, hotel reservations and windsurfing lessons.

The magic of the package deal is that it brings together the things you need to do what you want to do.

The package deal idea is worth remembering when shopping for new PCs for your business. If you expect your new computers to help make your employees more productive and efficient, then think in terms of a PC package that brings together all the necessary elements to do that. Avoid thinking solely in terms of acquiring machines that just process data faster.

	TIP: Office 2003 includes an E-mail Desktop Alert feature that previews newly arriving e-mail messages, no matter which Office program you are using. Important e-mails don't get overlooked this way. You can open or delete the e-mail message from this notification window.

So what does the best PC package look like? It will vary from business to business, but there are the three common elements:

• Fast hardware: Today's speedy CPUs can do much to offset the sluggish computer performance that causes stress among employees. You may not need the fastest processor on the market, but get one that's not too far behind. A generous helping of memory (RAM) — 512 megabytes (MB) or more if possible — will make sure you get the most out of the computer.



• Dependable operating system: Most PCs today come with Windows XP, the latest and most reliable operating system yet from Microsoft. The only real decision you need to make is which version to have preinstalled. Businesses should opt for Windows XP Professional, which has advanced security and networking features.



• Versatile productivity software: Remember, if seeing productivity gains is your goal for buying new PCs, then you'll want to have the latest productivity software installed with it. Designed for use with Windows XP, Microsoft Office 2003 benefits your business with tools that enable your workforce to reduce junk mail, produce commercial quality marketing materials, easily share documents and files, and use remote and mobile network connections. Office Small Business Edition 2003 — especially designed for small businesses — adds the power to let you effectively manage customer relationships. In addition, the familiar look and feel of the Office program suite lets your employees go to work immediately.

What if I Already Own Office?
You may decide to put off installing Window XP or Office 2003, especially if you already have licenses for previous versions of these products. After all, you can buy and install Windows XP or Office 2003 anytime after your new computers arrive.

But having software installed when you order your PCs offers these advantages:

• You have immediate access to the advanced features and capabilities of Windows XP and Office 2003. These tools directly correlate to greater reliability and employee productivity. Busy business owners who decide to add software later run the risk of never getting around to it and never seeing the benefits.



• You save time and labour by having your technology provider install your software. In addition, technology providers can ensure that your new PC meets all system requirements for your software, troubleshoot any problems and make sure the latest updates are installed.



• "Finally, all your technology changes occur at one time rather than over two periods. Introducing new PCs and then updating the software later creates two workplace interruptions.

Make Sure It's Genuine
One caution when ordering a PC package with preinstalled software: Make sure the software installed is genuine and not an illegal copied version. Only genuine software is eligible for support and upgrade programs.

How do you know if your software is genuine or illegal? Microsoft uses Certificate of Authority (COA) labelling to verify legally licensed Windows and Office software. When you take delivery of your new PC, the COA label for installed software should be visible on your computer or with the software disks that come with it.

Visit the Microsoft "How to Tell" site (U.S.) for a detailed description of how to find COA labelling.