MS going the Apple Way..as always

They have done it in the past, they will do it in the future , they are doing it as we speak.

Microsoft Corp,world leader in operating systems, has once again got something from Apple. Microsoft is looking to set up its own network of retail stores and they are pretty serious this time. David Porter who has spent 25 years at Wal-Mart !!!, the world's No 1 retailer has been hired as corporate vice president of retail stores for Microsoft.courtesy:GIZMODO.com

Mr. Porter, in a statement, said there are "tremendous opportunities" for Microsoft to create a "world-class shopping experience" for the company's customers.

"The purpose of opening these stores is to create deeper engagement with consumers and continue to learn firsthand about what they want and how they buy," Microsoft said in a statement.

I am not sure if MS stores will flourish as Apple stores did.It will have to face many issues like Channel conflicts,whether to add third party hardware (laptops etc to boost Windows OS sale), pricing etc .I think it will probably boost up the sales of Xbox product line and Gaming software rather than the MS Windows or Office product line.

I think timing is a key aspect,if MS sets up its first store by holiday season and release its Windows 7 which has got positive reviews, it may enjoy a smooth take off.

There are reports that MS stores will feature "PC Gurus" a direct copy of Apple's Genius concept.Personally I don't care if MS copies Apple all the time. As long it provides better value to its consumers,they wont care who did it first ,but rather who did it best? Why do you think Macintosh did not flourish as MS Windows even though it came first?