[Hidden-tech] Looking for reasonable Web host

[Christofer deHahn]

 I realize this is a virtual world and the location of our hosting companies
don't matter in any tangible way to many or all of us on this list. I do
think however that there are two main factors lost when we shop strictly on
price. First, is the opportunity to support other local businesses that have
worked very hard to build solid dependable solutions for the area. While my
company offers hosting I would point to the Crockers of the area that have
really really invested in infrastructure. Second, many of our clients will
be left to deal with the hosting company we choose for them. In this case I
find my customers do prefer local, and the knowledge they can get a human
being on the phone when they need to.

All good arguments. However in order to provide good service to our clients,
we have to match the service level to what the client expects. That's what's
missing from your argument.

I have a client who uses a local ISP for a redundant T1/DSL connection. They
want the security of a redundant connection, and they pay for it. Even so,
the ISP is closed after 8pm and open until noon on Saturday. If they wanted
or needed 24x7 support, they would be paying at least $150/mo more than this
ISP charges. The service I gave them matches their needs.

On the other hand, I have clients that just want a web presence. They call
me when there are issues, not the ISP. They don't really care if the site is
down for 24 hours or more. These clients need cheap access, and I need a
number to call when it is down. That's where the low cost providers have a
niche. It works well for everyone.

In a service buisiness, it's all about the SLA. Those that don't get that,
fail.

-------------- next part --------------
An HTML attachment was scrubbed...
URL: http://lists.hidden-tech.net/pipermail/hidden-discuss/attachments/20050429/ae89e567/attachment-0005.html