Issue link: https://resources.nanotempertech.com/i/1050614
14 If you are the person taking the lead on purchasing the equipment for your lab, the first question to ask is: How much it will cost? Some offerings include the product only, but others may include the product as well as the so ware, and in some cases, they'll include consumables, too. To get a sense of the total cost of investment, including upfront and ongoing costs, ask vendors what is included and not included in the quote they give you. Next, you will need to figure out a way to pay for it. Your institution may already have a plan in place for purchasing new capital equipment, in which case you may be able to use money that has been set aside previously. Alternatively, you can factor in your new equipment purchase as part of a new budget for the following year. Depending on how the purchasing process works at your organization, you may need to involve a lab manager or procurement officer. Find out what kind of documentation you need to provide to gain approval. Pro Tip Buying a new instrument is not o en a decision you make alone. There is usually a committee or group in place who must weigh in. An essential part of the buying process is figuring out who the stakeholders are and what they need to know so you can supply them with the right information. In most cases, a lab manager or procurement officer is responsible for the budget. He or she will likely want to know that you've evaluated your options and that you are choosing the best instrument for the job. Engage these decision-makers early and o en. You will end up presenting them with multiple quotes and options before all is said and done, so it's good to get their input before expecting to receive their full buy-in. Also influencing the decision is anyone who will be using the instrument. Generally, your colleagues' top concerns will include making sure the so ware and instrument are easy to use, that it doesn't slow down their work, and that it is easy to train others to use it. These influencers may also want to evaluate the instrument's technical capabilities to make sure it can give them the data they want.