A couple months ago, I wrote about looking for an FTP component to use in one of my projects.  After some research, I decided on FTP for .NET from Abderaware.  This was definitely a good decision.  Not only has the component worked out great, but the customer service is outstanding.

After my evaluation, I asked my client if they would purchase the license for it (along with the source code).  I mentioned that while it could be gotten cheaper at Xtras.net, they could also order it directly from Abderaware.  My client decided that they'd rather save a few bucks, so they ordered it through Xtras.net.  Please understand that I have absolutely nothing against Xtras.net, but in this case, it was NOT the best decision.

My client attempted to purchase the component + source code.  You would think that it'd take a matter of minutes to fulfill that order.  After all, we weren't purchasing a CD, just a keycode and a download.  After the first MONTH of waiting (and being told numerous times that Xtras.net was trying to contact the vendor), the client finally emailed Zane directly and within a few MINUTES, we had a temporary keycode to get us past the nag.

Another MONTH goes by and still nothing from Xtras.net.  The client had contacted them numerous times, but made no progress.  Finally, a week or so ago, I let the client know that it would be nice to actually have what we paid for.  He cancelled the Xtras order and re-ordered directly from Abderaware.  Within MINUTES, we had the source code and the permanent keycode.

I understand that Xtras.net is a relatively big operation (compared to Abderaware), but c'mon.  Our emails to Zane were answered almost immediately, yet they couldn't contact him in that two months?  Whatever.

Note to Xtras: If you're gonna sell it, you should be able to fulfill it. :-)