Ariel Lynn Guidry
November 11, 2008
Southern Smith
November 13, 2008
Dexter Gaspard shied away from computers as a kid … he said they were stupid.
Today, the Houma man’s passion and means of support is, ironically, computers.
Gaspard, owner of Grand Design Computers on West Park Avenue in Houma, makes his living customizing one computer at a time. But it wasn’t that long ago the computer whiz sat across from his high school computer literacy class teacher and vowed never to operate one.
“I told her computers were stupid and I’d never use one,” the 31-year-old technician said. “Now, look at me.”
Gaspard and his team of certified computer technicians spend their days custom-building laptop or desktop computers – PC or Mac as long as the parts can be ordered – or ridding the system of spyware and viruses.
Grand Design’s services are not limited to computers. In recent years, Gaspard has expanded into the business of installing surveillance systems, camera equipment and home and business network and routing systems.
“If you already have a computer and need it repaired, we can do that. But here, we custom-build our computers,” he said. “This is not something that is bought off the shelf at Best Buy or Wal-Mart, where you get what you pay for. Our computers are designed specifically for the customer.”
Despite his aversion to the industry in high school, Gaspard had a change of heart after spending time with a group of friends who spent their spare time building and repairing systems. It didn’t take long before the computer bug bit Gaspard. In short order, he decided it was time to strike out on his own.
“I started out teaching myself the basics of computers,” he said. “When I got into it, I found it was very easy to understand. I really comprehended the intricate workings of a computer. It was very simple to me. Finally, I went to a school in Miami to get my certifications.”
Gaspard is Microsoft Profes-sional Certified, Small Business Certified for SBS servers and Network Plus and A+ Certified.
“It’s always a continuing education process. Every year, I am in some form of training just to keep up with the advancements in computer technology,” he noted.
Grand Design Computers made its debut as a home business in 2002.
It marked the beginning of a new career stretch for Gaspard, who spent the prior nine years working in the oilfield industry. He admits he wasn’t suited for the job. He hated it, in fact. But the computer gig ignited a spark. Gaspard said the payoff of being his own boss and doing something he loved led him to quit the oilfield entirely in 2006 and focus solely on making Grand Design Computers a success.
“Business is good,” he said. “With most of the world being tuned into computers, the Internet and multimedia technology, I think it keeps me in a job. And, it keeps me on my toes with the rise in technology.”
“The computer age is forever changing and if you don’t stay abreast of it, you’ll get left behind,” he added.
“In this business, it’s not always just about having the skill. Sometimes it’s a mind thing,” Gaspard continued. “Technicians have to be able to think outside of the box on problems and issues with the computer. They have to be good at multitasking and troubleshooting.”
When asked which is easier, repairing or building, Gaspard said building because 99 percent of the time the computer technician knows that the parts work before a model is assembled.
On average, Gaspard custom-builds at least three or four computers and repairs nearly 20 weekly. From start to finish, it takes about three days for the custom work, and 48 hours for completed repairs, he said.
Admittedly, there are days when even the simplest task can leave a technician stumped, he said. Considering that a number of computer users believe repairs fall under the “do-it-yourself” heading, it can be a bit of a drawback to owning a computer maintenance company.
It is also a challenge to be competitive when big “box stores” offer off-the-shelf units at marked-down prices.
But from the outset, Gaspard knew he would be competing against big brand-name computer sellers. His “know-how” and strong work ethic are what separate him from the pack.
“They are selling quantity and not quality,” Gaspard said. By providing one-on-one service and after-sale service, the Houma businessman said he intends to ensure customer satisfaction.
“I can assess what a person needs and customize that computer to fit those needs,” he said. “In the end, I am happy with my work, and they are happy with the product that is presented to them.”
Grand Design Computers owner Dexter Gaspard is building a reputation for creating computers designed for speed and style. * Photo by SOPHIA RUFFIN
