2. Surface: How can Microsoft make it work

Image: Microsoft

It seems that I am giving you regular Microsoft unsolicited advice and the word that will update the Tablet Surface RT has triggered the Council once more. The Surface RT was a dismal failure regardless of how what you look, with Microsoft taking a write-down of $900 million due to unsold units. For many, that would be enough to throw in the towel for the line of RT for Windows but apparently not by Microsoft. You have thought Microsoft could do ahead with the surface 2 If you are careful.

Surface RT had the deck stacked against him from the outset. Only runs Windows RT, a version of Windows 8, which legacy as full Windows stripped applications cannot be run. It was also an envelope price, a mistake, Microsoft has already addressed with falls in prices. On top of these big disadvantages, confusion over the differences between Windows 8 and RT supposedly led to a high rate of return for Surface RT as buyers brought them home and they discovered the limitations of Windows RT.

Obviously, Microsoft has decided to give both Windows RT and RT Surface another opportunity according to Mary Jo Foley of ZDNet. 2 Surface must release this month with updated (and better) hardware. The company needs to tread water with care 2 surface to avoid another failure like the surface of RT.

It is important to see Microsoft make a small change in the name of the product, with surface 2 and dropping reference to RT. Many of those who follow such things believe RT is too restrictive and that it makes more sense to full Windows with the Surface Pro.

It will be difficult for Microsoft but do not push 2 surface such as Windows.The is not seeking buyer half tablet to Windows and may actually be negative.

Main consumers, the Microsoft Group should want to sign with 2 surface, no matter RT vs Windows 8. They just want to buy a tablet, so go with 2 surface is a good play by Microsoft.

Where the company has to be careful is in advertising. If Windows is promoted at all with 2 surface, that market confusion will back its ugly head again. Windows RT is not full Windows, and Microsoft must ensure, and does not imply that it lies on the surface 2 ads.

On the other hand, push the mark 2's surface in the form of tablets, nothing more and nothing less. That is what most of the buyers of the Tablet is looking for, simple tablets can do things with. That is the message that must pass through high and clear.

To notice an advantage to some buyers, Microsoft may push the availability of office surface 2. Do not seem that only those seeking office in a Tablet must purchase one because frankly I do not think that many were concerned. Just keep in mind that there is.

Most importantly, and this will be difficult for Microsoft, don't abuse of 2 surface such as Windows. I think that the average buyer tablet not looking for Windows and can be negative. Many associate Windows with work and not in a good way. Only show it in action and let the surface 2 will be sold.

Current Surface RT, $349 best price is the maximum price of the surface 2. Surely it is better than the RT Surface but those did not sell much, at least partially due to the price. It is a good idea to get the price 2 surface even lower that have the best opportunities in the market.

Pricing strategy should reflect the business strategy of Microsoft. If the goal is to sell a lot of them, price lower than the Surface RT at launch. If the goal is only to sell a smaller amount, hopefully to reflect a new decrease in the level of manufacture in comparison with Surface RT, go no higher than $349.

The strategy of this last has told me that Microsoft only keeping the surface 2 with Windows RT around to have a cheaper option for those who want it. It's okay but it won't much sales to speak of and not to be a great product from Redmond.

According to Mary Jo Foley of ZDNet surface 2 will be released on 23 September but probably not ship until later. It is logical to assume that do not ship until October 18, date Windows 8.1 (that be sent with) is available.

I'm not a fan of shipment after the launch for any gadget event lost the excitement and enthusiasm generated by this type of event. I think that Microsoft would be better served to actually send the surface in release 2. Get as many into the hands of enthusiasts the best to sell them immediately after the launch event.

Not only that it will capture the moment, surprisingly put the new surface 2 in the hands of the buyer with Windows 8.1. Buyers will feel that they gave him the prize with a new Tablet and the new version of Windows rather than most others.

This advice is given by the way of seeing things. If I liked it kill Windows RT completely, as I think it only hurts Microsoft. Since the company is determined to go forward with surface 2, you had better do well avoid that openly failing again.

If Microsoft has a small tablet that is hidden in the sleeve as rumored, this advice applies double to it. Push the typical functions of the tablet along with the form factor and leave windows completely outside advertising. As with the surface 2, the vast majority of buyers small tablet head not looking for a tablet with Windows. The Surface RT debacle has shown.

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