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Moving to Mac: 10 Things to Consider Before Deploying Mac OS X

By Don Reisinger on 2010-11-22



Apple’s Mac OS X platform is a winner for consumers. Not only does it make it easy for folks to do the work they want to get done, but it provides users with a level of security that they might not find with the potentially malware-ridden Windows box they use at work. Plus, it has a design aesthetic that people look for in products. But in the enterprise that hasn’t necessarily been the case. Apple’s market share is far behind that of Microsoft’s Windows share in business deployments, and the chances of that changing anytime soon are, well, zero. But that doesn’t mean that some companies aren’t considering deploying Mac OS X in their operations. Apple’s iPhone and iPad have piqued business customer interest in Apple’s platforms. In fact, some companies are right now examining how they can deliver Mac OS X to employees. But before that happens, those companies should keep in mind some of the things that might not make Mac OS X so viable. It’s a nice operating system, but it’s not the perfect software for business.
Read on to find out why:
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1. Security Issues Are There

Although Windows is widely considered the “dangerous” operating system for those who don’t adequately protect themselves from threats, more and more malicious hackers are turning to Mac OS X to capitalize on those users, as well. And the last thing a company should want to do is fall into a false sense of security with Mac OS X. Believe it or not, it can cause security issues, as well.

2. It’s A Consumer-Focused Product

As mentioned, Mac OS X appeals far more to consumers than it does to enterprise customers. The reason for that is Apple’s own focus. The company is a decidedly consumer-minded firm. Because of that, its products are designed with the consumer in mind. And for companies worried about productivity and business functionality, it might not be the best bet.

3. Employees Won’t Be Used to It

As noted, productivity is extremely important in the enterprise. The company that can get the most out of employees will typically be the firm that reigns supreme in its respective market. But by deploying Mac OS X in an operation, companies might feel a productivity hit. Mac OS X is very different from Windows. And getting employees up to speed will take some time.

4. Apple’s Computer Pricing

In order to run Mac OS X, companies have but one choice when it comes to hardware: Macs. That might not be an issue to some firms, since Apple computers tend to be highly regarded in the computing space. But it could be a problem for other companies that don’t want to pay the hefty price tag to get a MacBook Pro or a Mac Pro. Pricing should be kept in mind before deciding on Mac OS X.

5. Enterprise Applications

One of the biggest issues standing in Apple’s way is that the company’s operating system lacks the enterprise applications that make Windows so important to the enterprise. Part of that is due to Apple’s unfortunate treatment of developers, but it’s also due to enterprise market share. Either way, a company that wants to use certain applications just might not be able to use Mac OS X.

6. Finder Over Windows Explorer?

When it comes time to evaluate Windows and Mac OS X, companies should take a look at their file-management software. Microsoft’s Windows Explorer was drastically improved in Windows 7. Mac OS X’s Finder has remain relatively unchanged for the past few generations of the software. If companies use Windows Explorer often in their day-to-day activities, switching to Finder could be a shock.

7. Office Is Solid But Not Perfect

Microsoft’s Office platform is solid on Mac OS X, but most companies will likely find more to like in the Windows version of the software. Not only does Office 2010 on Windows work exceptionally well compared to previous versions of the software, but it provides an experience that most customers are quite familiar with. Office on the Mac also works well, but it’s not as rewarding an experience as it is on Windows.

8. Consider Mobility

The mobility factor must play a key role in how companies decide on Windows or Mac OS X. Windows is available on the HP Slate 500 and several netbooks. Mac OS X is available on a MacBook and MacBook Air, but those products are comparatively expensive. If mobility and pricing matters, Apple’s Mac OS X platform might not be a company’s best bet.

9. Apple’s Focus

It’s important to consider where Apple’s focus is before any company jumps on Mac OS X. Apple seems to be focused on being an entertainment company that provides top-of-the-line mobile products. Whether or not it’s really focusing on Mac OS X as much as it should is up for debate. And that’s something companies should keep in mind.

10. An Update Is On the Way

Although deploying Mac OS X right now might appeal to some companies, it might not be the best idea. Apple plans to offer Mac OS X Lion next year. And many of its efforts in the software space will be focused on that update. At this pointing, waiting for Lion could be the smart move.

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