Based on some of the things heard, here's Top 10 list of warning signs that should tip you off that it may be time to find a new vendor. From bad to worst, here they are:

10. The tech support guy's shirt has a Starbuck's logo. If you're dealing with a smaller vendor, its service will likely be handled by a third party; however, even some big vendors turn to service providers for certain regions. Before you buy, make sure you know who will provide the service, check them out with other customers and don't expect them to bring a latte along with that replacement drive.

9. The compatibility matrix includes a '57 Chevy Impala. With multiple-vendor shops more the rule than not, you should expect a product to work with what you already have installed. If a vendor's compatibility matrix is filled with "museum quality" products, beware.

8. The "no theoretical limit" sales pitch. Whenever a salesperson flirts with infinity to describe the limitations of a feature, take it as a sign that the limitations are very real and something you're bound to bang up against very soon.

7. The upgrade path is replacement. Having the option to buy a bigger, faster, etc. model from the vendor as your needs grow isn't much of an upgrade path. Unless, of course, they throw in the forklift for free.

6. You're up to slide number 59 in the sales rep's PowerPoint presentation. If the vendor can't sell you on its features and affordability in six or eight slides, hit the Escape key.

5. "We don't really have any competition." That usually means they think they're unique or, more likely, they have a solution for a problem nobody has.

4. All of the functions you need are options. They "start at a low, low price of ..." and usually end up costing more than any of the competitors' offerings when you add in everything you'll need for the thing to actually work in your shop.

3. "It's so easy to use you won't need any documentation." This usually means it's still a beta product, or they're waiting for another round of funding so they can hire somebody to write the docs.

2. The service contract costs more than the product. Think about it; just how good can the product be if it costs so much to keep it running?

1. Tech support returns your calls collect. Just hang up.