Lindsey Hines Feasibility Report

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Feasibility Report of Laptop Computer Purchase for Mark Stanaszek
_______________________________________________________________________ _ Created by: Lindsey Hines

Lindsey Hines

April 21, 2009

To From Date Re

Mark Stanaszek, Capella University Lindsey A. Hines, University of Minnesota April 21, 2009 FEASIBILITY REPORT FOR LAPTOP COMPUTER PURCHASE

I am pleased to submit the attached feasibility report for your recommended laptop computer purchase. After careful investigation it is found that the HP Pavilion dv4t is the best laptop computer for you. You expressed the need for a reliable and attractive computer and this model will not let you down. It is found to be reliable as reviewed by many current users. It also exhibits an incredibly sleek and attractive design. This model was found to be the least expensive computer of the three computers investigated pricing at just $642. I believe your next step should be to take a look at this computer for yourself. They have this model available to view at Best Buy locations, take some time to thoroughly familiarize yourself with this model. Try out the functional accessories such as the keyboard and mouse. If you decide you like the look and feel you should purchase this computer. You can do this by calling Danielle at Hewlett Packard at 1-877-999-4747 ext. 48913. She will have your name in the computer with the specific model discussed in this feasibility report. I would be delighted to answer any further questions you may have. Please feel free to contact me anytime.

Encl: Feasibility Report (1 copy)

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Table of Contents
Figures and Tables..........................................................................3 Executive Summary.........................................................................6 Introduction.....................................................................................7 Problem Statement..........................................................................8 Scope of this Report........................................................................8 Background Methodology................................................................8 Computer Terms.............................................................................8 Findings............................................................................................9 Conclusions....................................................................................11 Recommendations.........................................................................11 Appendix A:....................................................................................12 A.Interview Questions for Dell Sales Representative Kyle Johnston............................12 B. Interview Questions for HP Sales Representative Danielle Thompson....................14 C. Interview Questions for Apple Sales Representative Dan Bergman.........................15 D. Interview with Mark Stanaszek.................................................................................17 Works Cited....................................................................................18

Figures and Tables

Dell Inspiron 15

HP Pavilion dv4t

MacBook 13

Table 1: Computer functions and accessories 3

Lindsey Hines Computer Screen Price Weight Dimensions Processor Memory Hard Drive DVD Burner Battery Life Wireless Card Input and Output Ports Web camera and microphone Virus protection Warranty Microsoft software Color Dell Inspiron 15 15.6” $842.00 6.0 lbs. 1.2” x 14.05” x 10.08” 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo 2GB 250GB Yes 4 hours* Yes Yes Yes 3 years 1 year* Yes Red, Blue, Black HP Pavilion dv4t 14.1” $657.00 5.63 lbs. 1.34” x 13.15” x 9.45” 2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo 3GB 320GB Yes 3 hours* Yes Yes Yes 15 months 1 year* No* Black, White

April 21, 2009 MacBook 13 inch 13.3” $949.00 5.0 lbs. 1.08” x 12.78” x 8.92” 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo 2GB 120GB* Yes 4.5 hours* Yes Yes Yes Not needed 1 year* No White

*upgrade for a fee

Table 2: Website Editor Reviews Computer Dell Inspiron 15 Pros • Slim design (CNet, PC). • Light weight (PC). Affordable

HP Pavilion dv4t • Good performance (NR). • Great price (PC).

MacBook 13 inch • Combines performance and portability like never before (CNet). • Appealing design (DG).



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Lindsey Hines (PC). • Good design and body quality (DG).

April 21, 2009



Incredibly fast processor (PC). Small screen size for similarly priced notebooks (CNet). Small hard drive for similarly priced notebooks (CNet). Battery life less than expected2.5 hours (CNet).

Cons

• •

Cheap plastic feel (CNet). Short battery life-2.75 hours (CNet). Design and shape disappointing (PC).



Short battery life- 2.25 hours (PC). High running temperature (DG).











Table 3: Reviews from Users of Computer Computer Dell Insprion 15 HP Pavilion dv4t Pros • This computer • I really enjoy is well built this computer (CNet). (NB). • It gets the job done (CNet). • This laptop is outstanding (CNet).

MacBook 13 inch • The best laptop I have ever used (CNet). • A great size and a really great design 5

Lindsey Hines • Good design (NB). • A great computer for its price (NB). This computer has worked perfectly (CNet). I am disappointed with my purchase (NB). The speakers are not anything to boast about (NB).

April 21, 2009 (Cnet). • I have used both Macs and PCs…. I’ll pick this Mac any day (PC). Stylish notebook (NB). Purchased computer and it has given me nothing but problems (PC). Integrated graphics are bad (NB).



• •

Cons



I do not recommend this computer (PC).





Very • disappointing, I have had many problems with this laptop (CNet). I have had severe hardware problems (CNet). Cheap memory (NB). Bad speakers (NB).





• •

Executive Summary
It is recommended that Mark Stanaszek purchase the HP Pavilion dv4t laptop computer. He is currently using an out of date desktop computer for his academics at Capella University. This computer is unreliable and keeps him restricted to his apartment for accomplishing his assignments.

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Lindsey Hines

April 21, 2009

He would like to purchase an attractive and reliable laptop computer for under $1000. Three laptop computers were chosen from top computer companies, the investigated computers in this report are: 1. HP Pavilion dv4t 2. Dell Inspiron 15 3. The MacBook 13 The HP Pavilion dv4t is recommended because it is the most reliable and attractive computer at a low price. The Dell Inspiron 15 did not meet the specific criteria. The MacBook 13 was reliable and attractive but its price was high in comparison to the HP Pavilion dv4t.

Introduction
Currently Mark Stanaszek relies on his out of date desktop computer to fulfill his academics at Capella University. He would like to replace his computer with a new laptop. This would allow him the freedom and reliability that he desires from a computer.

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Problem Statement
Capella University is an online school in which all classes are conducted via the internet. Marks academic achievement relies heavily on the reliability of his computer, any type of problem could lead to serious consequences. He wants an attractive and dependable top of the line laptop computer to get him through his final three years of college. Like most college students Mark is on a budget and can afford to spend $1,000 or less on a computer. Unfortunately, Mark has very little knowledge about computers and limited time to look for one. These restraints make it nearly impossible for Mark to find a computer that is best for him.

Scope of this Report
This report is important because it determines the best laptop computer by investigating many different options. To decide which computer is best for Mark, three computers were thoroughly researched. Each computer is highly recommended by sales representatives from each of the computer companies they include; the Dell Inspiron 15, the HP Pavilion dv4t and the MacBook 13 inch system. This report includes the features of each selected model and the reviews of each selected model. The information is analyzed in this report and the top computer is chosen for Mark Stanaszek.

Background Methodology
Three of the nations top computer companies were chosen for considering a laptop computer. The three companies were Dell, Hewlett Packard, and Apple. Choosing three different companies allowed for a broad spectrum of computer options. Each company sales representative was allowed to choose what they felt would be the best laptop computer for an online college student. This worked best because the sales representatives are more knowledgeable than a consumer. Questions were then asked to each sales representative. Editor reviews from reputable websites were also used in the evaluation of each computer. Reviews from actual buyers were also found on these websites and used in the evaluation. These websites allow for subjective opinions by editor reviewers and actual buyers which allowed for an array of opinions.

Computer Terms

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Intel Core 2 Duo Processor: This processor allows someone to do more at the same time, like playing music, running virus scan in the background, all while editing pictures. This processor provides you with the speed you need to perform any and all tasks (Intel). Memory: The amount of storage that exists in a computer to temporarily hold data. Before a program can run it must be loaded into the memory which allows the program to be opened (Web). Hard Drive: A storage device for all files and programs on a computer (Web). GHz: Gigahertz. 1 GHz represents 1 billion cycles per second. This measurement is used for processor speeds (Web). GB: Gigabyte. This measurement is used to indicate memory in computer systems. One Gigabyte is 2 to 30th power bytes (Web). Byte: A storage unit capable of holding a single character. A computer byte is equal to 8 bits (Web).

Findings
There are many distinct differences between the three computers evaluated in Table 1. The most obvious to any observer would be the difference in screen size. The Inspiron 15 has a screen size of 15.6”, next the Pavilion dv4t has a 14.1” screen, and lastly the Macbook 13 having the smallest screen at 13.3”. The weights of each of these computers follow the same trend with the Inspiron 15 weighing heaviest at 6 pounds to the smallest Macbook 13 weighing just 5 pounds. The three computers have the same Intel Core 2 Duo processor. The Inspiron 15 and the MacBook 13 processor is 2.0GHz, while the Pavilion dv4t has a slightly larger processor size of 2.4GHz. The Inspiron 15 and the MacBook 13 also have the same 2GB memory, the Pavilion dv4t has a 3GB memory. It is important to note Dan the Apple sales representative said “a Mac 2GB would work faster than any competitors 3GB” (Appendix A). After further investigation it was found that a Mac’s speed is faster than a PC’s when they are equipped with nearly identical parts including memory and processor (Mac/PC). Each of the computers has a different size hard drive; the Inspiron 15 has a 250 GB, the Pavilion dv4t has a 320 GB, and the MacBook 13 has a 120GB. The battery life of the three computers quoted by each of their sales representatives were 4 hours for the Inspiron 15, 3 hours for the Pavilion dv4t, and 4.5 hours for the MacBook 13 (Appendix A).

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Each computer is equipped with a wireless card, input and output ports, a DVD burner and web cam with a built in microphone. These computers also come with a l year warranty which can be extended for an additional fee. Inspiron 15 comes with 3 free years of virus protection upon purchase. The Pavilion dv4t comes with 15 months free virus protection. The MacBook 13 does not need virus protection. Dan from Apple explained that “Mac’s do not get viruses” (Appendix A). The Inspiron 15 includes installed Microsoft software. Neither the Pavilion dv4t nor the MacBook 13 includes this software although the Pavilion dv4t can have the software installed for an additional fee. Dan from Apple recommended “going on Amazon.com and purchasing a version for a cheaper price” (Appendix A). The Inspiron 15 is available in three colors; blue, red, and black. The Pavilion dv4t is available in two colors; black and white. The MacBook 13 comes in white only. The cost of each of these computers includes the functions and accessories listed in Table 1. The price of the Inspiron 15 is $842. The price of the Pavilion dv4t is $657. Lastly the price of the MacBook 13 is $949. Editor reviews on reputable websites show trends with pros and cons of each of the models (Table 2). The pros for the Inspiron 15 are its slim design, light weight, and affordable price (CNet, PC). The cons for this computer include its design and shape, cheap plastic feel, and short battery life of 2.75 hours (PC, CNet). The Pavilion dv4t pros include its good performance and great price along with its good design and body quality (NB, PC, DG). The cons of this computer are its short battery life and high running temperature (PC, DG). The MacBook 13 pros include its performance and portability, appealing design and incredibly fast processor (CNet, DG, PC). The cons of this laptop computer are its small screen size and hard drive for similarly priced laptop computers, as well as its less than expected battery life (CNet). Reviews from actual buyers were also available on these websites (Table 3). The Inspiron 15 had some positive reviews including one saying the computer was “well built” (CNet). This laptop computer also had many negative reviews including; “I do not recommend this computer”, “very disappointing” and “I have had severe hardware problems” (PC, CNet). The Pavilion dv4t had many positive reviews including; “I really enjoy this computer”, “this laptop is outstanding” and “a great computer for the price” (NB, CNet). One reviewer of this laptop computer said, “I am disappointed with my purchase” (NB). The MacBook 13 had many reviews online as well. Some reviews that were positive stated; “the best laptop I have ever used”, “a great size and a really great design” and “I have used both Mac’s and PC’s, I’ll pick this Mac any day” (CNet, PC). Some negative reviews said “I have had nothing but problems with this computer”; another said “the integrated graphics are bad” (PC, NB).

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Conclusions
Reliability, attractiveness and price are the most important criterion to Mark, and will be used to draw conclusions for the best computer in this report. Each of these criteria can be assessed by looking at the findings. It is hard to determine the reliability of a computer in general because the views can be very subjective. Each of the computer companies said that their computer was very reliable (Appendix A). The editor reviews did not comment on reliability because they only review the computer, they do not use the computer on a day to day basis. Due to this the best insight into reliability of a computer is to look at current user reviews (Table 3). This information shows that buyers had mixed reviews on each of the laptop computers. It is important to note that the Inspiron 15 had more user complaints on these websites than the other two laptop computers. The most notable complaints are the ones about technical difficulties. The Pavilion dv4t and the MacBook 13 had far more positive reviews than negative. It is to difficult to draw definite conclusions based on this data because it is very subjective. It should be noted when considering these reviews that the reviews were taken off reputable websites in an attempt to get the least biased opinion of one computer over another. With that being said one must keep in mind that not everyone comments to a website about their good or bad experience with a computer. Therefore much of the reliability of this computer will be discovered by oneself after their computer purchase. It is important to remember that all three of these computers come with warranties which will be important for ensuring the reliability of each computer should it malfunction. In Marks case he may consider renewing his warranty when it expires. Attractiveness can be assessed by the editor review (Table 2). The Inspiron 15 is given poor reviews for its attractiveness. This model is said to have “cheap plastic” and “a disappointing design and shape” (CNet, PC). Both the Pavilion dv4t and the MacBook 13 got rave reviews on their attractive designs. The prices of these three laptop computers vary but are all under the required $1,000. The Inspiron 15 is priced at $842, the Pavilion dv4t is $657 and the MacBook 13 is $949.

Recommendations
Based on these three criteria the HP Pavilion dv4t appears to be the best choice for Mark Stanaszek. This laptop computer excels at meeting each of Marks criteria. The Dell Inspiron 15 does not compare because it lacks both reliability by many current users and attractiveness. The MacBook 13 measures up with the Pavilion dv4t in reliability and attractiveness but it can not beat its incredibly low price. By purchasing this model instead of the MacBook 13 Mark will save $292.

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April 21, 2009

The Pavilion dv4t will also get him more for his dollar. It has a larger screen and double the hard drive size of the MacBook 13. It also has a larger processor and memory, although this does not necessarily mean it will run faster (Mac/Pc). He will also have the option of a black or white computer depending on his preference. This specific model is registered under Mark Stanaszek at Hewlett Packard. I recommend that Mark Stanaszek call Hewlett Packard and purchase the Pavilion dv4t.

Appendix A:
A. Interview Questions for Dell Sales Representative Kyle Johnston
1. I am looking for an affordable laptop computer for an online university student for under $1,000, what do you recommend?

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Lindsey Hines Kyle (K): “Will the student being using it for anything else?” Interviewer (I): “It will be used predominately for school.”

April 21, 2009

K: “We specifically customize our computers to fit your needs. “I am going to recommend the Inspiron 15 and will add an upgraded hard drive to make this computer optimal for a college student. This computer just came out; it is the most popular with the newest parts.” I: “That sounds great.” 2. What will the total price be for this computer? “This computer is priced at $842.00 and will have everything that a college student needs.” 3. What are the special features that come with this computer? “This computer comes with a 2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, a 250GB hard drive, a wireless card to get Wi-Fi, 2GB memory, a DVD burner, a webcam with a microphone and Microsoft software. All of these will be important for a college student.” 4. What is an Intel Core 2 Duo processor? Why is it important? “This processor is like having a 2 in 1 brain. It allows you to run different programs at the same time without your computer slowing down on you.” 5. What does the Microsoft software come with? “This software comes with Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook email.” 6. What does this computer look like? “It has a nice size screen which is 13.6”. It weighs about six pounds and comes in a few different color options. 7. What are the color options? “This model comes in three colors blue, red and black. This is nice because you can personalize your computer a little bit! It seems like most people only have black or white computers.”

8. Does this computer come with virus protection valid for? “Yes, and it is covered for the first three years free of charge. After this you have the option of buying it.” 9. Does this computer come with any type of warranty do you offer? “There is a 1 year warranty that covers: technical support by phone or online and in home service technical support which includes free parts and labor.

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You can extend the warranty for a fee when it has expired or for a cheaper rate if you extend it when you buy the computer.” 10. How long is the battery life on this computer? “This particular model has a four hour battery life.” 11. Can this computer be viewed online? “Yes, go to our website…Dell.com. Go to the search at the top of the screen and type in Inspiron 15, you can view it in all three color options.” 12. What are some problems that an operator might have when using this computer? “A user should be problem free. If there is a problem there is in home technical support as well as support by phone or online.” 13. Do you believe this computer will be reliable for a college student? “Yes, most definitely.” 14. Would it be okay to contact you with any further questions? “Yes, absolutely”

B. Interview Questions for HP Sales Representative Danielle Thompson
1. I am looking for an affordable laptop computer for an online University student for under $1,000, what do you recommend? “I would recommend the HP dv4t. It is very popular among college students. We also offer a college discount on the computers along with any of our products.” 2. What are the features of this computer? “It comes with a 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, a 3GB memory, 320 GB hard drive, DVD burner, many ports and a webcam with microphone. 3. How big is this computer? “It weighs 5.63 pounds and has a 14.1 inch screen. It is a great size at a really great size for its price.” 4. What is the price? “The price of this model after the student discount is $657.00. This is a great price.” 5. Does your computer come with wireless capabilities? 14

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“Oh yes, it comes with a wireless card. All of our computers come standard with this.” 6. Does this computer come with virus protection? “Yes… It is cover for the first fifteen months. After this you can subscribe to continue service.” 7. Do you have a warranty? What kind of warranty do you offer? “There is a 1 year warranty on all of our computers. You have the option to extend this warranty for a fee when the warranty has expires or you can pay extra now for an extended warranty.” 8. What colors does this computer come in? “It is offered in both black and white.” 9. Does this computer come with Microsoft software? “You can purchase it for $99.00.” 10. Can this computer be viewed online? “Yes, you can go to our website.” 11. What are some problems that an operator might have when using this computer? “A user should have no problems with our computers”. 12. Do you believe this is a reliable computer for a college student? “Absolutely, this is our top seller for college students” 13. Would it be okay to contact you with any further questions? “Yes, please do.”

C. Interview Questions for Apple Sales Representative Dan Bergman
1. I am looking for an affordable laptop computer for an online university student for under $1,000, what do you recommend? “The MacBook 13- inch system would work best for this price range it runs at $949.00. My daughter uses this MacBook for school.” 2. What are the features of this computer? (Each feature was inquired about if not directly informed)

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“This computer comes with many features a 2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 120 GB hard drive, 2GB memory, wireless card, webcam with microphone attached, a DVD burner and many ports for connecting an iPod and such.” 3. Does this computer come with virus protection? “Macs do not get viruses. Because of this our computers do not slow down. I guarantee our 2GB processor will work faster than any competitors 3GB.” 4. What kind of warranty do you offer? “There is a 1 year warranty on hardware and components. You also get a warranty for 90 day for over the phone questions” 5. What is the weight and screen size of this computer? “This is a very nice small computer, perfect for a college student to fit in their backpack. It has a 13.3 inch screen and weighs only 5 pounds.” 6. What colors does this computer come in? “It comes in white.” 7. Does this computer come with Microsoft Word? “No, but I would recommend going to Amazon and getting it for cheap.” 8. This computer has a smaller hard drive than the other computers I have looked at, will a student have to be worried about filling up the hard drive? “It would take a lot to fill up this hard drive especially if the main use of this computer is for school work. If you would run in to this problem which would not likely happen for many years you can change out your hard drive for a bigger size.” 9. Can this computer be viewed online? “Yes, on our website.” 10. What is the battery life on this computer? “It has a long battery life of up to 4.5 hours.” 11. What are some problems that an operator might have when using this computer? “A user will seldom have problems with any apples. Each component put into this system is specifically for that computer. We also use high dollar components unlike any of our competitors this is why our computers are more expensive. They are much better quality. You can not compare a Mac to a PC.”

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12. Do you think this college student will be able to rely on this computer for his needs? “Of course, my daughters works wonderfully.” 13. Would it be okay to contact you with any further questions? “Yes”

D. Interview with Mark Stanaszek
1. What exactly are you looking for in a new laptop computer? “I am looking for something that is reliable. My current computer is very old and I feel like it could die on me any day, it takes forever to turn on and sometimes shuts off on me. I really want a laptop so that I can go to coffee shops or to the park and do my homework.” 2. Do you have any specific computer in mind? “I really don’t, I have not really been looking all that much. I really just want something that is going to get me through school without costing me a fortune. I definitely can not afford anything over $1,000; I am on a serious budget!” 3. Is there any feature in a computer that you want, like a specific screen size, color, style? “I do want something that doesn’t look cheap if it’s possible for my price range. I don’t want to be embarrassed of my computer! I also don’t want a really big or really small computer just something in between.” 4. Are you going to be using this computer for anything other than school like gaming etc.? “No basically just for school and to go on the internet. I am definitely not a gamer.” 5. Is there anything else you can think of that may be of importance to in a computer? “ I don’t think so, I don’t really know a lot about computers so I just want to make sure I get one that will be good for keeping all of my school information and allows me to get on the internet…. That sort of stuff.” 6. OK, well if you think of anything else let me know. “I will.”

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.

Works Cited
1. CNet.com. 05 Feb. 2008. CNet Reviews. 14 Apr. 2009 http://reviews.cnet.com/ (CNet) 2. PCMag.com. 03 Apr. 2009. Product Guides. 14 Apr. 2009. http://www.pcmag.com/category2.asp. (PC) 3. Notebookreview.com. 07 Apr. 2009. Notebook and News Reviews 16 Apr. 2009. http://forum.notebookreview.com/forumdisplay. (NB) .

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4. Digitgeek.com. 26 Oct. 2008. Hardware Reviews and Tutorial. 16 Apr. 2009. http://www.digitgeek.com/laptop-review. (DG) 5. Intel.com. 2 Dec. 2008. Intel Core 2 Duo Processor. 16 Apr. 2009. http://www.intel.com/products/processor/core2duo/index.htm. (Intel) 6. Webopedia.com. 1 Jan. 2009. Terms. 16 April 2009. http://www.webopedia.com. (Web) 7. Consumerreasearch.com. 2 Nov. 2008. Mac vs. PC. http://www.consumersearch.com/mac-vs-pc. (Mac/PC) 8. Johnston, Kyle. Personal interview. 8 April 2009. 9. Thompson, Danielle. Personal interview. 8 April 2009. 10. Bergstrom, Dan. Personal interview. 8 April 2009. 11. Stanaszek, Mark. Personal interview 1 April 2009.

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