Apple User Group Connection

The idea was for Apple to share information with its user community directly, rather than through the more traditional support and distribution channels.

The organization successfully encouraged Apple to pursue early internet technology such as bulletin board systems and ARPANET.

Furthermore, as Macintosh users sought more direct means of learning about innovations and capabilities of the Mac and its software (in 1985, standards for customer support depended primarily on written/mailed correspondence) Macintosh users began ask Apple and software providers for faster access to technical and usability information, as well as upgrades.

Ellen Petry Leanse's work in the UGC guided her to establish Apple's first connection with users via the early roots of the web – ARPANET, The WELL, Bulletin board systems, etc.

Leanse grew and ran the group through 1990 when she left Apple to focus on her personal life.

1988 user group advisory council. Appearing in the chair to the right is Ellen Petry Leanse.
Image of old Apple mug provided to the advisory council
Ellen Petry Leanse guided the design of this vintage Apple mug, working with Apple's Creative Services team. She states, "It would not meet Apple design standards today but it sure worked at the time." The "Thanks" is a tribute to the advisory council Ellen Petry brought together to talk with Apple about ways of working with User Groups at the time.