Louise Bolger | SUN
Brian Prete, owner of Empire Computer Services, wants
to empower clients.
Do you need "IT" support? Do you even know what "IT" means? Well, what it means is information technology, a term than can raise the stress level in even the most laid back of us. Not to worry. There is someone out there who wants to explain and teach you all the new technology in a simple and user-friendly way.
Brian Prete started Empire Computer Services on Anna Maria Island right after graduating from college in Albany, N.Y., in 2004 with a computer science and business degree. His goal is to empower clients who encounter computer, Internet and smart phone problems by not just fixing the problem but also providing an understanding of the technology. Empire is very accommodating, providing same day mobile services in your home or business for all of Anna Maria and Bradenton, as well as Longboat Key and even areas further south. Frequently staffers can solve your problem remotely and are always ready to offer complimentary advice.
This young family man's business plan certainly has worked. Prete now has five staff members including three on-site technicians and is getting ready to expand this year to another location adding two more technicians. In addition he has an actual store where you can purchase computer equipment as well as computers.
They will help design a computer system for your home or business and provide an even better warranty than the manufacturer. All consultations are free, price quotes can be given over the phone in many cases and service contracts are available. Many seasonal residents depend on Empire's technicians to setup new computers or get them started again when they return. And since Island businesses traditionally do their renovations during the slow summer season, they call on Empire to move and upgrade their servers and computers during this time.
Empire also installs security cameras and services accessed on your smart phone, whole house audio, WiFi installations, cloud backup and virus and computer repairs. And according to Prete, technology is changing so fast that everyone may need a technology advisor and Empire wants to be yours. Prete says that what Empire staffers really offer to their clients is critical thinking and problem solving abilities. They are in a position to diagnose what the problem is and can explain it in an understandable way face to face.
Prete wants to thank everyone on Anna Maria for helping to support his fledgling business and allowing him to grow. He has special ties to the Island and really wants to help the community, indicating there is someone on the Island almost every day.
So if you think IT is the bogeyman, call Empire, which will turn the bogeyman into a little mouse and empower you with knowledge.
EMPIRE COMPUTER SERVICES
6003 21st St. E., Bradenton
941-201-1234
Flexible hours Monday through Friday
Saturday by appointment
All major credit cards accepted
www.empireonsite.com