"In the need to upgrade my old laptop for some time, I decided to stop by this store, but mostly to see what Microsoft had created. I admit I expected a copy of the Apple Stores and nothing much to offer. From the layout I think everyone would agree it is very similar to Apple Stores, but with hardware from multiple vendors, as well as Microsoft hardware and software products.\n\nTo be fair, since Microsoft is mostly a software company, I don't think it's fair to expect a similar experience to an Apple Store. Also, if interested in a hardware evaluation, their customer service people will have demands greater than Apple in trying to know as much about many different products as possible. \n\nAfter looking around, I had numerous questions about Windows and networking. The first rep I spoke to was newer to the field so he brought a more experienced person who was able to answer practically all of these more advanced issues regarding Windows.\n\nIn the past if I had questions about Windows functionality, and more frequently problems, sales representatives at stores are usually poor in knowledge and not Microsoft certified experts. I would have to resort to searching the internet or trying to find solutions in book stores. I did resort to calling Microsoft a few times over the many years but only when I had exhausted all other ways to solve the problems.\n\nThis store provides something that has been missing, a great resource for Windows questions and problems from people who are (or should be) the Microsoft versions of an Apple genius. Considering that 90% of the computers out there are running Windows I think this store (and others if they expand) would be a great place for operating system and other Microsoft software help and education.\n\nUnfortunately, when it comes to purchasing computers they have a lot of competition, unlike Apple, since people can buy from so many stores or directly online. I don't know if they would be able to offer anything that unique, other than service, that would draw people to favor these stores over other stores. If they push education classes like Apple stores they might gain a following to make them profitable. Actually provides a face to face educational experience that has been lacking for Windows, Office, and other Microsoft software running on various products.\n\nNot sure if it will catch on, but if you are having problems with a Microsoft product, or have questions, I recommend this store for a face to face interaction."^^ . "0"^^ . "2010-03-09T00:00:00"^^ . "0"^^ . "5"^^ . . "2"^^ . . .