Macintosh repairs can be tricky business, especially if you don’t have a dedicated IT staff – and, more importantly, a dedicated Mac-savvy staff member– in your company. And while it seems the average Joe is comfortable tinkering around with a troubled PC, not many people are willing to touch – much less repair – a sad-faced Mac. That’s where a certified Mac repair technician comes in. Apple is aware of the special needs of its systems and hardware, so the computer company has created a certification program for those interested in learning all about Macintosh repairs and the inner-workings of these fine machines. There’s even an Apple Certification Alliance of the most knowledgeable Apple technology professionals out there.

While you don’t necessarily need to go to one of the members of the alliance, you should keep a few things in mind when searching for Mac repair service:

1. Establish a relationship with a local Mac repair company. You never know when you’re going to need Apple repair . . . and fast.

2. Consider mailing in your computer for Macintosh repairs and upgrades. The turnaround time is faster than you might think.

3. Explore training your current staff on the in's and out's of Mac repair. It could save you a bundle in the long run.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose a local business for Mac computer repair

While the number of certified Mac repair technicians doesn't quite equal the staff size of your local Geek Squad, you can often find local help for Mac repairs.

I recommend: DT&T Computer Services is a California-based Mac repair service that offers walk-in or mail-in MacBook repair, Power Mac G5 parts and more. Boulder Mac Repair can provide Colorado businesses with Macintosh computer repair and upgrades. They even offer refurbished Macs for sale. Find a certified Mac repair specialist in your area through the Apple Certification Alliance.

Try mail-in Apple repair services

If you don't have access to local Mac computer repair services, don't despair: There are plenty of mail-in options that offer free shipping and reasonable repair rates.

I recommend: MacService offers Apple laptop repair services and upgrades. You just ship your problem Mac to them, and a repaired computer comes back to you typically within 24 hours. Powerbook Medic offers MacBook repair as well as repairs and upgrades on iBooks, iPods and other Apple products.

Offer your staff Mac repair training

If you already have an IT department, encourage some of the IT staff to bone up on their Apple repair and troubleshooting skills. If you don't have a designated Mac person for your company, choose 1 and get them comprehensive training.

I recommend: MOST, or Mac OS Training, Troubleshooting, and Technical Support, is a Chicago-based company that specializes in consulting and support services. They offer Mac computer repair classes on operating systems, software and more. Apple offers AppleCare Technician Training, which teaches the skills needed to troubleshoot Mac hardware and its operating systems.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make sure the repair company you choose has Apple Certified Technicians or is an Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP).
• •  For quick Mac repairs, consider looking up the equipment manual online and trying some troubleshooting techniques before resorting to a Mac computer repair company.