Apple has broken a huge barrier
I have been using a MacBook for almost a year now, although I support DELL for business and I am a very strong advocate for Microsoft in today’s business…I love my MacBook.
Don’t get me wrong, Microsoft and their products are critical to the success of your business. Don’t be fooled, you still need Windows, Office and Microsoft’s Back Office solutions to get your work done, your business a success and collaborate effectively with those around you.
But, Apple now can play an important role!
Apple’s new Operating System “Snow Leopard” is now available, and the upgrade will set you back a whole THIRTY-FIVE dollars CAD. First, Microsoft and other computer services provides can learn something from Apple’s approach here. Get the Family pack for $59.00 which includes iLife and iWork.
Does Microsoft charge to much for their upgrades?
In my journeys as a technology professional here in Calgary, many small business owners are frustrated about the price Microsoft charges for their new versions. Now, if technology professionals were on the ball many businesses can leverage software assurances with their licenses and stay up to date without having to pay for upgrades. However, many small businesses purchase software licenses which are not upgrade eligible for now additional costs.
David West, Calgary web design expert from eKzact told me in a meeting this week “If Microsoft charged $35.00 for their operating system, it wouldn’t be hacked as much”. Dave this statement rings true. Apple may have some challenges with software piracy, I do not believe it is as high as the numbers Microsoft has.
Apple now supports Microsoft Exchange
One of the important improvements I am excited of is the ability for “Snow Leopard” to connect to Microsoft Exchange Server now. Many of Bulletproof’s clients who have MacBooks or other Apple products at home or in the office have had to use other mechanisms to leverage Microsoft Exchange. Now, we can connect using Apple’s ICAL, Apple Mail and Address Book to connect to Microsoft Exchange Server – out of the box. – No need for Outlook, Parallels and a Windows Operating System – just to check email and communicate with your peers, vendors, and others.
In full disclosure, I haven’t tested this yet on my own MacBook against our mail server at Bulletproof InfoTech. It matters to business to ensure all the features and benefits are aligned. I will be getting this upgrade from the Mac Store here in Calgary this week.
Your Feedback
I would love to hear what you have to say about “Snow Leopard”, leave your comments.
Ulistic focuses on serving the needs of Canadian Small Business, REALTORS, and Information Technology firms across Canada and United States. Helping your business understand, deploy and leverage social media, search engine optimization and online communications to generate business opportunities and make an impact inside your community and industry.
Twitter: rbgilgantelus.net
“Don’t be fooled, you still need Windows, Office and Microsoft’s Back Office solutions to get your work done, your business a success and collaborate effectively with those around you.”
Not true. There are many different tech solutions that provide excellent collaboration tools, office tools and business development tools that don’t rely on Microsoft operating systems or software. I would argue that we’d be better off today, technologically, had Microsoft not had the market dominance it’s enjoyed over the past couple decades. And wealthier.
Rob, thanks for your points. There is a lot of bitterness towards Microsoft out there. Although I love my MacBook, we still need business solutions and Microsoft does this well
I am sure there are many businesses who use Google Mail, Open Office and other non-Microsoft technologies in their business. My experience is this, they are not 100% as efficient as those who do. Sure, I think Microsoft can learn the value of upgrades from Apple and others.
Stuart
How’s Life?
How bout “rpc over http”/”outlook anywhere” against the exchange server?
The ability to do calendar/contacts/inbox anywhere/anytime via outlook is huge in my work day!
Richard, my early news is this…
The MAC mail client, although nice will not replace Outlook. I run Office 2010 in Parallels and I will not replace this just yet.
Stuart Crawford
LOL, not Outlook Anywhere
from http://www.apple.com/macosx
“Mac OS X also supports manual configuration of your Exchange server settings and remote setup and access of Exchange through most VPN connections.:”