Re: Real life "service" from "authorized Apple dealers"

[gachenb@eis.calstate.edu (Greg R. Achenbach)]

I have used the (800)SOS-APPL number to good advantage.  They were
surprisingly helpful.  Here is the story:

I have done a couple of IIc free upgrades here in So. Cal. with no
problem.  This summer I went to Maryland to visit family, and decided to
get my Mom's IIc upgraded for free while I was there.  I called around and
got the typical responses that you mentioned.  So, i took the company that
was the least obnoxious on the phone and decided to educate them.  I told
them about the upgrade, what it was, and that Apple Inc. was supposed to
pay for it.  They were still skeptical. So, I called (800)SOS-APPL just to
make sure that the free upgrade thing was still in effect.  They said it
was, and to have the computer shop (Computerland) call them.  I then
called the shop back and gave them a number, and the name of a person to
talk to at Apple.  They called, got their confirmation, and then were more
than happy to help me.  I came away feeling like I had been treated well
by both Apple Computer, Inc. and Computerland (their service center in
Jessup, MD)  I was impressed.  

Just thought I'd share a little success story.  If you are having trouble
with an "Authorized Apple Service Center", call Apple.  They may be able
to "influence" the service center.  Remember, Apple wants to keep the
customer happy, and the shop needs to keep Apple happy to retain their
authorized status.
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Greg Achenbach             gachenb@eis.calstate.edu
Los Angeles County Outdoor Science School

"Society is like a stew.  If you don't keep it stirred up, you get a lot of
scum on top."  Edward Abbey