Maybe you’ve repaired devices on the side for years, helping family members and friends start afresh without having to purchase something new. Or maybe it’s a skill you’ve honed over the years, and you’re now ready to take it to the next level. Whatever your reason for opening a repair shop, you’ll need to pay attention to those vital first steps as you lay the foundation of your business.

RepairQ provides software solutions for repair service shops in various capacities. We wanted to take the time to highlight the must-haves for electronics repair professionals as they work to support their entrepreneurship and build rapport with customers.

#1 Tips for a Good Electronics Workstation

As you’ve likely anticipated, building an electronics or computer workstation desk is one of your first tasks when you open a repair shop. You can invest in a prebuilt electronics workstation, or you can DIY one and save some money.

A few tips for those workstation DIYers out there:

• Use sturdy material like solid wood or another nonconductive material like plastic. You can use steel, but you’ll want to ensure the surface is safe from possible conduction.
• Get a good-quality chair that breathes, supports your back, and complements long work sessions (seriously, you’ll be glad you did).
• Incorporate electrostatic prevention measures like grounding straps and work mats.
• Invest in an adjustable lamp for close-up or otherwise difficult-to-see projects.
• Install easy-to-access storage containers
• If you haven’t already, start your collection of tools with a bench vise and various-sized clamps.
• Seek quality testing equipment. Even if you have your own already, consider upgrading to prepare your shop with a fresh set.

#2 A Network of OEMs and Other Partners

Networking building and partnership acquisition are huge, especially for small business owners looking to get their hands on up-to-date parts and information. That should be a priority if you haven’t started reaching out to manufacturers and distributors yet. It wouldn’t hurt to also keep the competition close and connect with other repair shop owners in the community.

Once you’re good and off the ground, you’ll need to manage these partnerships and stay in the know on necessary software integrations for your internal administrative needs. Despite all the advantages of social media and the hyper connection of western civilization, good ole fashion relationship-building still carries power. 

#3 CRM Software for Quality Customer Interactions

Speaking of relationship management, if your customers appreciate your work, they’ll definitely return. Managing customer relationships will require repair shop CRM software that can not only house vital customer information but also automate communications with them. This way, customers will be notified when their repairs are done. But, more than that, a quality CRM will also help you promote any sales or trade specials you may have.

#4 Touchscreen Point-of-Sale Software for Repair Shops

Point-of-sale software is changing in tech and repair industries. It can do much more than provide the necessary interfaces for your transactions, and it can do so with fewer hardware requirements than older setups.

Our recommendation? Seek out software that:

• Provides easy-to-navigate user interfaces
• Is compatible with payments providers like Square or Bluefin
• Tightly integrates customer and repair data

And, as long as the point-of-sale software you use supports it, you can install a tablet as your transaction point. This alternative should only cost a few hundred dollars and will be efficient for the foreseeable future.

#5 Inventory Management Assistance

Inventory management is huge. If you can start your shop with a competent system, you’ll save yourself a lot of stress in the long run. The right inventory management software will integrate with your sale/trade/purchase transactions and populate parts and device counts accordingly. Some software out there can even help you manage online vs. in-store inventories.

Start Your Repair Shop With RepairQ’s Help

RepairQ offers a wide range of features for repair shop owners looking to keep all their assets in one place. From CRM portals to inventory management, our products can help you get started with confidence. Connect with us today by using the contact form below.