Have you ever eagerly walked into a computer store in search of Macintosh software, poke around for a few minutes, and then suddenly realize that the store stocks no Mac software at all? Or do you find that what they do stock is more pathetic than their Commodore 64 or Vic-20 section? If so, you’re not alone.

Though everyone knows the Macintosh is the finest computer ever built, many retailers refuse to stock a decent selection of software. What little software they do stock is usually outdated and often useless.They claim that because the Mac commands less than ten percent of the computer market, there’s no reason to devote more than ten percent of their shelf space to it. Although their argument seems logical on the surface, I still don’t buy it. Macintosh users are devoted, faithful fanatics; if more retailers carried a good selection of Macintosh software, there would certainly be a lot less computer and software stores going out of business.

It’s sad to say it, but to get the newest Macintosh software you must either order it from a mail order company, or have a local retailer place a special order. And don’t be surprised if your local computer store won’t even order it for you. Just the other day I was in a software store and wanted to order a Macintosh product. The nicely dressed salesman assured me that he had absolutely no control over the inventory, and that he couldn’t possibly order a specific software product. I was stunned by the insanity of the situation. Hello? Aren’t I the customer? Don’t you want my business? Is this some Windows/DOS conspiracy in action?

So, where do we go from here? I suggest that everyone do everything within their power to increase the Mac’s market share. That will certainly make vendors take a closer look into the Macintosh market. Trying to increase the Mac’s market share may seem incredibly difficult, but with patience, perseverance and dedication, you can do your bit to get more Mac software onto retailer shelves. 

The first major step has already been done for us. Apple has licensed the MacOS to hardware companies such as Pioneer and Radius. With the increase of Macintosh compatible systems, its market share will certainly rise up a few notches (especially if you go out and buy two or three additional systems). Secondly, what you need to do is to write a letter to every Windows/DOS user you know, and point out the obvious flaws and defects with the operating system they use. Be diplomatic and polite—but take care to insinuate that they must certainly be mentally unstable if they don’t own a Macintosh. Use a lot of colorful metaphors in your letter, too.  

Thirdly, try to get as many articles of Apple clothing that you can find/buy /steal, and replace your current wardrobe. Try to get an Apple t-shirt for everyday of the week.  Let the whole world know that you love Macintosh.  (There may be people who ridicule you for this, but take solace in the fact you are part of the small community of persons who have strength of vision—the strength to endorse, idolize, and bow down to Macintosh.)  If you can’t find any Apple clothing, take the Apple logo sticker that came with your Mac and stick it on a white t-shirt. That should do the trick.

What I’m really trying to get at here is that retailers won’t change their barbaric practices or blatant ignorance unless something comes up and hits them sMACk on the head.  It’s basically up to you and me to get the ball rolling. So get out there and evangelize!

If you’re like me, you live and breathe all things Mac. In the end, even if the software retailers don’t carry more Macintosh software…and even if Apple doesn’t gain a greater market share…you can be proud of the fact that you subscribe to a faith more comforting than any other. 

MacOSism. 

In my heaven, angels wear Apple t-shirts… 

Renzo Piche is an avid Macintosh technician and can usually be found hounding local Apple Dealers and Representatives for Apple clothing. Mr. Piche loves to hear from fellow Mac enthusiasts. Drop him a line at RPiche@aol.com.