CNN Money asks: Is an Apple environment right for your small biz? Yes, if you’re not a moron
- June 3rd, 2008
- 4 Comments
Look, I’m not trying to be some anti-Windows Apple fanboi. I’m not saying that a Mac is for everybody; I think everyone should give them a try and then think critically about switching. But when it comes down to choosing between upgrading your small business to Vista or switching to OSX, it’s kind of a no-brainer.
That’s why I take umbrage with this story from CNN’s Money. In it, the writer compares the pros and cons of switching, but ultimately has a few gripes about using a Mac in an office environment.
The grips, from a qualified writer, include such offenses as the packaging being too nice, inability to find the power button, and the whiz-band interface in Time Machine.
The writer had problem with Apple’s Spaces as well. Sure, it might be a little confusing, but they’re not for everyone, and can be turned off. And he was upset that a specific app that his office uses for VPN didn’t work well on a Mac.
Sure, these could be legitimate gripes, but the author doesn’t contrast and compare these with PCs, like the fact that some Vaio notebooks have two power buttons that must be pressed in order, that there are alternate apps for pretty much any Windows app, and that Vista is a gas-bag of a memory and resources hog.
Again, I’m not making the case for Apple, but if there are reasons to avoid switching your office over, not being familiar with the power button isn’t one.
Randy (Who am I?)
3 months ago
Why is it a no brainer? Vista works. I am using it on 42 different computers with users doing different tasks from proprietary software to just surfing the web.
Macs are fine too…just say that…don’t say well between Vista and Mac OS it’s a no brainer…come on.
lens (Who am I?)
3 months ago
Why do I never see journalists mentioned the reasons why *I* switched to Macs. These were the most important to me:
1) The new operating system (or computer) MUST be faster than the old one. Vista machines fail this test. Startup on windows is an eternity, and gets longer as you add programs.
2) On Macs, you can add/remove programs by dragging and dropping. On windows, this is pure hell. I had to stop installing demo software on my PC.
3) Windows machines come with so much crapware, it adds hours (days?) your setup just to get the clean new PC you (thought you) bought. Point #2 makes this even more of a crime.
Ron (Who am I?)
3 months ago
I have been running Vista 64bit for over 9 months, I’m also using a Macbook Pro on the side for the past 5 months now. I think either OS is fine, but for a small business, specially when it’s running on a tight budget, consider getting Windows. It’s just a better fit and more practical in terms of function and cost. Now…if you’re running a business that’s related to the visual design field, when the clients are here, you want to be sure your office is equipped with those new & shinning Mac Pro and iMacs.
Rob Loach (Who am I?)
3 months ago
All the same arguments here could be used with Linux. Honestly people, the desktop doesn’t matter anymore. It all comes down to what web applications you’re using.