Well, you see, if the user only uses the PC for internet, e-mail and work, then her PC can last a while before buying a new one.
To get optimal performance out of it, get another 512MB RAM. I've seen some at Best Buy for $35. Also, the video card...I had the brilliant idea to game on a Geforce FX 5200...but wow...that's so not great for some new games.
So, get a 5200, but that's if you don't game or play very lite games. If not, get a 6200, 6600 OR a Radeon 9600 or 9800.