In the world of computer commoditization and consistency Apple Computer has long been the exception to the rule. However, a chasm is on the horizon and some quick decisions need to be made to avoid the fall.

By all accounts Apple’s iBook education program has been a success for those schools and districts who have invested especially since the rollout of the Ice iBook in 2001. The model design has, for all intense purposes, stayed the same, with the exception of processors and a switch to the slot-loading CD-ROM. The design consistency and rugged construction has allowed schools/districts to purchase in large quantities based upon the concept of consistency, similarity, and quality. Teachers and students know that the key placement, ports, power button is in the same place. This sounds rather silly, however, their is a logic in having everything the same for students. No fighting over which computer is coolest. Secondly, is the issue of “bug issues”. Having one design eliminates many headaches. I know this from personal experience at my own school where I deal with only three types of desktops and one laptop design. The time and mental anguish I saved in cutting down from eleven to four has been in calculable.

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