More Opportunities for Apple
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5. Focus on the halo effect
The halo effect is strong at Apple. Those who like the company's iPod or
iPhone are buying the company's Macs. Apple should focus on that effect while
ensuring that its products continue to appeal to users. The more exciting and
worthwhile its products appear to be, the more viable its software will become.
Apple can't lose sight of that.
6. Key in on Windows 7's problems
With the release of any new software, there will undoubtedly be issues.
Apple needs to make sure that it keys in on those issues, while bringing them
to the public as quickly and efficiently as possible. It's not enough to simply
say that Windows 7 isn't a good operating system. Apple needs to make that case
by explaining why.
7. Target consumers
Although Apple is doing better than it has in the past at attracting enterprise customers,
the chances of the company actually enjoying enterprise dominance are slim. But
it is possible that Apple can steal market share away from Microsoft in the
consumer space. That said, it can only do so if it focuses its attention on
consumers. It needs to attract them. And in the process, some of its successes
in the consumer space might filter into enterprise.
8. Remember core principles
In today's tech industry, the core principles that govern Apple's ability
to do so well can't be forgotten as the company attempts to capitalize on the
release of Windows 7. Apple can do its part by showing that Windows 7 is the
same old Windows with a different name. It can show that Apple is the only
company providing a "cool, next-generation" experience to consumers.
It has worked so far. There's no reason to suggest it won't continue.
9. Take on price
One of the biggest complaints many consumers and enterprise customers have
is that Windows 7 is too expensive. The operating system will set users back
hundreds of dollars when it hits store shelves next week. Apple offers an
upgrade to Mac
OS X "Snow Leopard" for just $29. Apple can use that to its
advantage. And it can show potential Windows 7 buyers that Microsoft's operating
system might not be worth the price.
10. Compare with PC vendors
The vast majority of Windows PCs are boring. Vendors like Dell,
Hewlett-Packard and Acer simply don't provide the sexy products that have made
Apple such a success. In today's marketplace, how we look matters just as much
as what we're doing. Apple can use its massive marketing budget to show users
that if they want to be old-school, they can stick with a Windows PC.
Undoubtedly, Apple's battle against Microsoft and Windows won't be easy. But
there are opportunities for the company to capitalize on Windows 7's release.
