Originally in Apple Orchard Magazine
V1N1 — March/April 1980
To define user group, we must first define user. Very simply a user is an individual who has purchased or otherwise acquired a: product. Webster defines user as “a person or thing that uses”. In the context to which we refer herein, user means an Apple II computer user. Further, in our own definition user group implies . in our own definition, user group implies a gathering or association of people with a common goal: to share with the others the’ knowledge in various areas that individuals may have gained.
Currently in the United States, it is estimated that there are between 50 and 100 active Apple computer user groups. User groups are not restricted to Apple users by any means. There are, also a number of groups devoted to the Pet, TRS80, etc.
In addition, going back a bit further there were (and still are)’ computer clubs with a wider range of interest, i.e., not devoted to a specific brand or type of computer. These clubs were built around first generation microcomputers such as Imsai, Sol, etc., a breed which for the most part require some background in computer technology.
These micros are not what the consumer expects today of machines like Apple or Exidy, where one can walk into a computer store, plunk down a thousand or so and walk out with a computer that can be taken home, plugged in and immediately be put to use.
In the mid 70’s, buying and assembling a microcomputer was akin to buying and assembling a stereo system, taking it home and plodding you r way through a maze of wires and manuals hoping that your pride and joy eventually would “run”. Out of this was born the first “user groups”, the computer clubs of the period. These clubs were of necessity hardware-oriented.
Today the user group has taken on a new meaning and significance; they are groups where now the primary accent is on software and the exchange of information more closely allied to programming and operation.
To understand the functions of a user group, it is necessary to look at some of the groups that are acknowledged as leaders and that were among the earliest formed.
The first group around, to the best of our knowledge was the Original Apple Corps in Los Angeles. They existed as’ early as December, 1977. Other groups that qualify as “pioneer” Apple user groups include the San Francisco Apple Core and Seattle’s. Apple Pugetsound Program Library Exchange. It was only natural that as the microcomputer industry developed on the west coast that the first user groups would be from that area. ‘
We have requested that each of the groups that contributed to the formation of the International Apple Corps furnish us with a bit of history and background on their respective organizations. Those vignettes follow here.
