CUSTOMER service and support in Asia have never been the best in the world.
For many years, computer users in the region have had far less support locally than users in the United States enjoyed.
But this trend has begun to change as computer companies introduce support programmes which resemble those offered in North America.
Some software vendors now seem to be making it their mission to add value to their packages in an effort to curb rampant software piracy, a major problem in Hong Kong.
Alfred Tsoi, general manager of Lotus Development Software, said customer service could play a major role in combatting the widespread use of illegal copies.
''[We offer support] in order to provide more incentive for people to buy original software,'' he said.