firedog
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
- see fire dog for the archaeological artifact type.
| firedog | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Type | Public (NYSE: CC) |
| Founded | September 1, 2006 |
| Headquarters | Richmond, Virginia, USA |
| Industry | Service |
| Products | PC, Car Audio/Video & Home Theater Services |
| Website | http://www.firedog.com |
firedog (formerly known as IQ Crew or simply PC Services) is the brand name through which Circuit City stores offer in-home, in-store & online services for computer repair, installation and support, and home theater product installation.
Contents |
[edit] Services
firedog offers in-home, in-store and online services which began December 12, 2005. firedog allows certified technicians to access consumers’ computers over a high-speed Internet connection to view, configure, demonstrate and repair computers and other technology products. firedog's services cover all Windows-compatible computers and computer accessories to give consumers full tech support. The range of firedog services now offered through firedog.com include both setup and training for PCs, wireless networks, MP3 players, digital cameras and more.[1]
In-store firedog technicians are now able to repair most OEM warrantied HP and Compaq products regardless of where the item was purchased, as-well-as Circuit City Advantage repairs. Warranty work is done if the issue/repair is covered by the product warranty, HP and Compaq reimburses firedog for doing your repair.
There are three generalized groupings that services are divided into, each of which can be offered in-home, in-store, and online. The divisions of firedog services are as follows:
PC Services which include repairs, upgrades & training as well as periphery services such as transferring home videos to DVD and converting old CDs or tapes to MP3. If the repairs require re-installation of the operating system, the units are shipped back to the original manufacturer.
Home theater services, Home theater services include mounting flat panel TVs, though only if the walls have wood (not metal) studs, installing in-wall or in-ceiling speakers as well as consolidating all of a customers remotes into one and training the customer on how to operate their home theater equipment.
Integrated services, which are meant to converge PC technology with home theater equipment. Customers can purchase service which include setting up gaming consoles for online play, connecting computers to a TV for watching media, viewing photos or listening to MP3s and setting up whole-home wireless networks for PC and home theater connection.
[edit] Brand image
The green, black, and white logo, a dog jumping through a hoop, is meant to evoke the idea of Circuit City "doing whatever it takes to get the job right," said Firedog spokesman Bill Cimino to the Dow Jones Newswire on August 25, 2006.[2] "We chose the name Firedog because it evokes the kind of qualities we intend our technicians and installers to provide: helpful, friendly, knowledgeable and reliable. When it comes to improving consumers' relationship with technology, we want Firedog to be your 'best friend,'" added Philip J. Schoonover, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Circuit City Stores, Inc.[3][4] Not to mention, in the Chinese Callender 2006, the year Firedog was created, is the year of the Fire Dog.[5]
Firedog now also includes the Car Audio services.
[edit] Associates
firedog associates consist of Circuit City employees. Circuit City has several superstore positions including: Product Specialists, Sales Supervisors, In-Home Technicians, In-Store Technicians, In-Home Installers, In-Home Installation Helpers, In-Home Installation Managers and Car Stereo Install (Roadshop) associates. Every Circuit City location has several Product Specialists, Sales Supervisors, Car Stereo Installers, and at least one In-Store Technician. A select number of stores from each area have In-Home Technicians, and/or In-Home Installers and Installation Helpers. In-Home & In-Store Computer Technicians are required to be Microsoft Certified Professional's, by (1) Already having passing a Microsoft test that designates that certication, or by (2) by passing the Microsoft 70-271 exam. Technicians are encouraged but not required to hold the CompTIA A+ Certification for computer upgrades and repairs. On January 9, 2007, firedog attained Microsoft Gold Partner Status, after over 700 technicians attained Microsoft Certified Professional credentials. [6]
Circuit City's Store Support Center has a team of associates, from Operations Analysts to Call Center Reps that work for the firedog brand exclusively. On the store side, firedog is overseen at the regional and district levels. These positions consists of the Regional Services Manager, Regional Firedog Manager, and District Firedog Manager.
Firedog currently utilizes a Scion xB and Chevrolet HHR for in-home PC services. In some cases, a Chevrolet Aero Van is used for in-home services, converted from primary PC services vehicle to a multi-use vehicle serving Home Theater Installers as-well.
firedog associates within stores wear bright green polo shirts with the firedog logo on the left breast.[7]
[edit] firedog across America
On December 6, 2006 Circuit City launched its "firedog Across America" program in a ceremony attended by former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani as well as Circuit City CEO Philip J. Schoonover. The nationwide program aims to identify and reward exceptional public service rendered by America's professional and volunteer firefighters through an online essay contest. Americans can nominate their local firehouses (both volunteer and professional) for outstanding service to the community and the winners will split a prize pool totaling $650,000 (US). The first donations from the program were accepted by Giuliani at Ladder 3/Engine Co. 6 in New York City with FDNY Foundation vice-chairman Andrew Guarino. The first donation, totaling $100,000, was made from Circuit City to the National Law Enforcement and Firefighters Children’s Foundation. Circuit City donated an additional $100,000 to the FDNY Foundation.[8][9][10]
[edit] Slogans
- "Have no fear, firedog is here." (September 2006 - Present)
- "Teaching old technology new tricks." (September 2006 - Present)
- "It takes a special breed to be a firedog." (Hiring Slogan, September 2006 - Present)
- "We make technology's tail wag." (September 2006 - Present)
- "Make your computer obey." (September 2006 - Present)
- "Unleash your technology." (September 2006 - Present)
- "Your surround sound hound." (October 2006 - Present)
- "Discover a new breed of technology service" (October 2006 - Present)
- "Helps you turn life on" (October 2006 - Present)
- "Because your home theater doesn't come house broken" (January 2007 - Present)
- "Call and we'll come running." ( - Present)
[edit] See also
