Planning Ahead: Switch to Mac for Business
Yes, Omrinet drinks of the Apple kool-aid, but we aren't ignorant of the value of PC's. I personally have installed many Windows Server networks and was actually a system manager at a Wal-Mart distribution center, running at the time of Windows NT and then upgrading to Windows XP. I still use a WIn
dows machine daily because of one specific application, CorelDraw. I was even one of those Windows users you ranted about Mac lovers who went on and on about the value of Apple computers. That was until I used one myself. Now I make it my business to get not only individuals but organizations, churches, and businesses to make the switch. Once I explain the value, and the why it makes sense to buy a computer than cost twice as much as a similarly 
(seemingly) featured PC, they are anxious to make the switch.
Sometimes they are primed for the switch. Unfortunately, this is fairly rare and we usually end up dealing with a few applications that are Windows only. Time clock applications, Quickbooks, and Microsoft Publisher are the major hurdles. But they can be worked through by either switching to a new program or using a virtual windows machine. Work arounds work, but they have there issues. If you are looking to make the switch, start now by working towards eliminating these hurdles. Here are a few things you can do to make life easier during the BIG SWITCH:
As always, if you are looking to make your transition easier, we can help you deal with the issues that inevitably come up. We have the experience and we love helping other realize the value of a Mac. Please contact Omrinet when you are ready to upgrade to the machines that "just work".
Sometimes they are primed for the switch. Unfortunately, this is fairly rare and we usually end up dealing with a few applications that are Windows only. Time clock applications, Quickbooks, and Microsoft Publisher are the major hurdles. But they can be worked through by either switching to a new program or using a virtual windows machine. Work arounds work, but they have there issues. If you are looking to make the switch, start now by working towards eliminating these hurdles. Here are a few things you can do to make life easier during the BIG SWITCH:
- Use web based applications when possible. Google Apps are a big hit for my clients.
- Web based email. Again, Google Apps and Google Premier Accounts work great for using your own domain with the incredible confidence that comes in depending the giant that is Google for your email. It just make sense.
- Quickbooks comes in web app form as well as for the Mac, but there are disadvantages. We deal with this often and we usually install VM Ware to run Windows on the Mac virtually for the sake of making it easier and less of a pain for the client.
- Look for similar applications that are Windows only in the Mac environment. I could use Adobe Illustrator instead of CoreDraw for instance. Also, many school use an online grade book application. There are many great version that are web based, which means it doesn't matter if your using a Mac or not.
- Microsoft Office for Mac works great and is almost identical. It even has support for VBA which means your macros still work. You wont have Access, and frankly there is no match for that in the Mac world, although many liken Bento to Access. Frankly, thats like comparing a VW bug to a Ferrari. If you need Access, run a virtual machine or keep a PC around.
- Stop using Publisher. Apple Pages and Microsoft Office for Mac Word has all the functionality. Using Word only will make it easier to send documents without fear of the end user not being able to open it.
- Start using DropBox. Your files will be in one place. Once you switch it will be a matter of syncing your folder and you will have your files just like you left them. Everyone should use DropBox…period.
As always, if you are looking to make your transition easier, we can help you deal with the issues that inevitably come up. We have the experience and we love helping other realize the value of a Mac. Please contact Omrinet when you are ready to upgrade to the machines that "just work".
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