[omh]

If there's an IT department to manage the PCs then he shouldn't have to do any of this. "The computer is inadequate for my work" should mean that IT come out, establish what they can do and make it happen.

If configuration changes like Aero or an SSD make a decent difference then the IT department are best placed to make them. They know all of the possible side effects, and when they get it right the benefit will reach everyone in the company.