Visionary Mojave Advice

Hello,

On Monday (Sept 24th), Apple will release the next-generation of the Macintosh computer operating system called macOS 10.14 Mojave. We’re very excited for Mojave because it’s jam packed with some incredible new features like Dynamic Desktop, Stacks, Continuity Camera, and improvements to the Finder, Quick Look, FaceTime, the App Store & more. However what really sets it apart is that for the first time in a very long time, we’ve got a completely redesigned UI (User Interface) called Dark Mode. It’s not only super cool and sinister, it’s easier on the eyes and helps keep you focused. In any case, upgrading your Mac’s OS is a major endeavor which shouldn’t be taken lightly. There are often serious consequences and side effects. We’ve got just three simple suggestions which can help make your upgrade as smooth and safe as possible. Trust me, follow this advice…

1.) Backup -You’ve got to have a full, current, Time Machine backup of your Mac before you even think about upgrading to Mojave. While reverting to a previous system is not easy, at least it’s possible if you have a full, Time Machine backup. Without one you going for a space walk without a tether. Time Machine is easy and automated. All you need is a backup drive of some kind. Make sure you have one (or get one, we’ve got plenty of them in stock) and then check to make sure yours is operating correctly before you take the next step.

2.) List -Make a list of all the non-Apple software you use regularly. Be sure to include it’s version number. (I’m talking about things like Microsoft Office 2016 or Adobe Photoshop CS5.) Now check with the publisher (Microsoft or Adobe in my example) of that software to make sure the version you have is fully Mojave compatible. If it’s not, be sure you get an update or upgrade before you install Mojave. Now do the same thing with any peripherals (printers, scanners, etc.) and make sure drivers exist which are Mojave compatible. Be aware that while the macOS from Apple is free to download and install yourself, often upgrades from software publishers will involve upgrade costs.

3.) Wait - This is the hardest one on my list - we live in a world of instant gratification. Waiting is  not easy these days. However waiting a few weeks is likely the very best general advice I can offer to customers. Within a few hours, millions of early adopters will have downloaded and installed Mojave on Monday and they will uncover countless issues. Apple will be working diligently to squash bugs in the macOS and will quickly release 10.14.1. I’d likely recommend most customers wait until 10.14.2 comes out before upgrading. Additionally, all the software you listed in suggestion #2 will also likely see compatibility updates coming from the software publishers. They need time to get those things worked out. Waiting a few weeks will save you countless hours of frustration - patience.

The old saying “your mileage may vary” very much applies here. If you are using mostly Apple software and staying current with all your third party software, you will likely have an easy upgrade. However, if you have old software, if you’ve missed a generation or two (or more) of macOS upgrades, or if you have an older computer then chances are your upgrade may be a little rocky and perhaps more costly. Not sure what to do? You can always schedule an appointment to meet with my technical team for a personalized evaluation of your upgradeability. Just be aware, we will likely use the next few weeks to gather data about what works and what doesn’t so sit tight and let the rest of us be your guinea pigs. Eventually Mojave will be a game changer and an incredible addition to your Mac. 

Get ready,

David Maffucci
Visionary Computer