The discussions between William White and Apple executives during their recent meeting left a profound impact. Even Joe, who was initially hesitant, had to admit that William's insights were irrefutable. The idea that personal PCs might be a bit unreliable for Apple's second-generation machine gained consensus.
Apple's target audience for their second-generation machine should primarily be small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). While the machine could certainly handle work-related tasks, its entertainment capabilities left much to be desired. It was clear that the focus should be on productivity and business applications.
With this newfound perspective, Apple could allocate its resources more effectively. Their immediate goal was to rapidly expand their market share. If they could achieve a monthly shipment rate of 30,000 units, it would significantly boost their valuation.
Investment banks demanded accurate data, not just potential. With the addition of software, not only would sales increase, but gross margins would improve as well. The 30% cut that Apple received from software sales was a lucrative revenue stream.
William White's unconventional approach to selling computers was also having a positive impact. Apple's salespeople had started selling computers with a focus on improving work efficiency. They highlighted how the computer could simplify tasks like personal tax calculations, reducing the need for accounting staff and typists.
Old Joe was eventually won over by William White's approach. He recognized the potential for Apple's sales to soar if they maintained this momentum and coupled it with increased profit margins.
Becoming a billionaire was the shared goal of these founders. While Old Joe wasn't born into wealth like Bill Gates, he saw the opportunity to prove himself and gain social recognition. Wealth was an essential indicator in a capital-driven society, and achieving billionaire status would bring a level of prestige and respect.
The topic shifted to the development of the software used in White Office Suites. William White clarified that he didn't personally develop the software; it was created by a talented team under his guidance. He saw himself as more of a creative force, guiding the direction of the software's development.
The conversation between two friends also touched on personal matters. William mentioned that he was temporarily suspending his schooling due to other commitments. He was planning to make a movie and invited his friend to assist him.
As White Software's success became more widely known, mainstream media began to take notice. While software was not a mainstream topic at the time, the charismatic figure behind the company, William White, attracted significant attention. However, William remained elusive, rejecting interviews, promotional events, and book signings.
The media's attempts to secure an interview with William White proved futile. The writer-turned-entrepreneur remained uncooperative and avoided public appearances. He maintained a low profile, allowing the media only a glimpse of his college days.
Forrest Gump had become a literary sensation, and media outlets were eager to interview its author. Still, William White's resistance to publicity was unprecedented for a best-selling author. Instead of interviews, he allowed the media to access old photographs from his college days.
Even though the media tried to dig up some youthful indiscretions to sensationalize his story, William White's reticence allowed him to maintain an air of mystery. He handled the media's relentless curiosity with remarkable restraint, and his refusal to engage in promotional activities added to the intrigue surrounding him.
The media, accustomed to dealing with high-profile individuals, found it perplexing that William White, with his newfound success, chose to remain so enigmatic. Meanwhile, the students at his alma mater recalled a more approachable and talkative young man during his college days.
Despite the media's fascination, William White remained focused on his business endeavors. His insistence on privacy and his dedication to his company's success left the media and the public intrigued and mystified in equal measure.