Re: An unqualified outsider asks,"Is a FAQ in order?" was[Re: General comment]


"Richard Owlett" <rowlett@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote in message
news:11o1srm5vadu53c@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> CAVEAT LECTOR -- I lurk on sci.techniques.microscopy because I was once
> referred to it for a specific question. I continue because I find many
> threads fascinating. [I've added *emphasis* to portions of your answer.]
>
> Kevin Cunningham wrote:
>
> > [snip]
> >
> > I make my living in the microscope business but I think your comment
> about prices is right. The difficulty is that
> > there are tons of things you can add on a high end 'scope. For a
> stereo there's fluorescence, remote control and different types of
> illuminators.
> >
> > What would be good is advertize the price of the lower line
> instruments, like ones sold primarily to doctors, hospitals and
> undergraduate schools.
>
>
> You have identified one "well defined" subset of an intractable problem.
>
> > *I have had so many calls that were answered with the same number of
> dollars answer.*
>
>
> The "frequent" criterium of "FAQ" is satisfied.
>
> > The problem is that this is *low on manufacturers list* of things to
>
> > do.
>
>
> OK, low on *THEIR* list.
> How low should it be on your list?
> I gather that you are in the retail end of distribution channel.
> And yes I understand distinguishing between "retail" and manufacture rep
> can be difficult as one approaches research quality equipment.
> [I was an Instrument Tech for Chemistry Dept. at Cornell in late 60's and
> early 70's.]
>
> > Most microcopes are for the semi-conductor industry or are biological
>
> > confocals.
> >
>
> Why not sponsor "Microscope FAQ for MTBD"?
>
> MTBD == "Market To Be Determined" ;)
>
> Depending on market segment you serve, it may not get you additional
> customers.
>
> Again, it might reduce calls on your time required for politely deflecting
> queries from not currently potential customers who might later be/work for
> customers.
>
> Looks like a win-win to me.
>
>
Richard, You have some good ideas! However one small error, I don't sell
anything, I just fix microscopes. In the past, the far past, I sold
microscope stuff and was technical head of the now bankrupt Southern Micro
Instruments.

I would strongly agree that manufacturers and dealers should have a part of
their web sites that gives prices for things like student microscopes,
doctors office instruments and clinical instruments. One hematology
microscope is exactly like another so why not give the price for it? It's
just that all of the above trade in total is less than 4% (very
approximately) of the microscope trade therefore its just not at the top of
the list.

Last but not least is time. If I had more time I'd.... My wife and I are
thinking about a trip to Europe, most likely France, Paris. While we're
their we might go to the Institure for the Microscope or then we may sit on
the Left Bank and do nothing. Absolurtely nothing.

Kevin Cunningham
SMS


.

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