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How do I start a user group?
Look at our list of resources and our information specific to campus groups.
Browse the information available on the Apple User Group Advisory Board website and at The MUG Center (an excellent third party resource).
What does it take to start a group?
To start, all it takes is a couple people with a lot of passion. Get your friends involved, and start having fun as you discover the possibilities.
Why would I want to start a group?
Instant friends, discounts, and making a difference in your community are just a few of the reasons. Check out a list of many more benefits.
How do we create a name and logo?
When thinking about a name or logo, be creative. Talk with other leaders about the possibilities. Create a unique brand identity for your group. Make your logo your own, which means not including the Apple logo or Apple trademarked images. Apple does provide an approved logo that groups can use to identify themselves as recognized Apple user groups. The recognized Apple user group Ambassador can obtain these signature files along with the usage guidelines from Apple Sales Web (part L27741A-US).
How do I get my group into Apple’s user group program?
You must apply to be in the program.
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Click on Register a New Group.
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Fill out the Group Profile and submit.
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Fill out the Contact Profile and submit.
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Wait patiently. New group approvals sometimes take a few weeks.
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So, once approved, are we an official Apple User Group?
No, you are a recognized Apple user group. There is no such thing as an official Apple user group. Apple user groups are independent organizations not authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved by Apple. We recognize your value, encourage your efforts, and look forward to working with you.
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What’s the best way to stay informed about Apple user group happenings?
Subscribe to the Apple User Group Bulletin, a monthly email publication.
Also check out the Apple User Group Advisory Board's website for information on events, resources and special offers for Apple User Groups.
How can I improve an existing group?
It often helps to brainstorm with fellow user group leaders. We provide a nice forum for this. Join Apple’s user group email discussion list for help from your peers.
I hear there’s a resource DVD for user groups. How can I get one?
The Apple Ambassador for each registered user group may order the Mailbox DVD from Apple Sales Web for a small fee. We send one per group — no exceptions — and back issues cannot be sent. Most of the materials included in the mailings are available online via Apple Sales Web. Contact your group leaders if you would like to become your group’s Apple Ambassador so you receive the mailings and can access Apple Sales Web.
What’s an Apple Ambassador?
It’s a role assigned to one individual from each user group in the Apple database. This person may order the resource mailing and is considered Apple’s primary contact for that group.
How do I become my group’s Apple Ambassador?
You must be assigned this role in the Apple user group database by the leaders of your user group. Contact them if you are interested.
I’m a group leader and have no idea whom our ambassador is. How do I find out?
You need to access your database record and look at your group’s contact list to see who has been assigned the Apple Ambassador role. If you don’t know how to access your database record, you need to request your group’s name and password by emailing us at usergroups@apple.com.
Can user group members use Apple Sales Web?
Apple Sales Web access is for only registered groups’ Apple Ambassadors.
I’m having technical trouble with Apple Sales Web. Who can help?
Please email a detailed description of the problem to asw@apple.com.
Can I get special deals on Apple products as a user group?
Yes, user group members can purchase Apple products and other third-party software and hardware through the MUG Store. Points are accumulated by the groups that can be redeemed for Apple merchandise or equipment. Check with group leaders for login information that is sent in the Apple User Group Bulletin. Contact the MUG Store with questions about ordering as a user group member.
My group wants to use the Apple logo for promotional purposes. Can we?
Recognized Apple user groups may use special signature lines that include the Apple logo. The groups Apple ambassador may download these files along with usage guidelines from Apple Sales Web (part L27741A-US). Be sure to follow the included guidelines for usage.
How do I get a speaker to present at my user group?
Please check our Leader Resources page for more information about presenters.
Do you support user groups outside the United States?
Yes, some user group programs are available worldwide:
Others are available only in the US and Canada. Some things we can’t do worldwide for red-tape, legal reasons, and sometimes we just don’t have the bandwidth.
User groups outside the US are advised to contact their local Apple office, introduce themselves, and build a relationship there.
How do I network with other user group leaders?
Join the Apple User Group Discussion list, introduce yourself, and network with leaders from around the world.
I have some input on Apple’s user group program but don’t feel comfortable discussing it directly with Apple. What can I do?
Send your thoughts to the Apple User Group Advisory Board. The advisory board is responsible for gathering feedback from the user group community and providing counsel to Apple on issues related to its user group program. Contact them at ugab@mac.com.
Why should I bother updating my group’s record in the database?
If you don’t, potential members won’t be able to find your group in the User Group Locator. You may also miss out on exclusive opportunities for user groups. Here’s how we use data in the user group database:
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Online locator: Apple points customers to the online locator at the user group website to find local groups. We refer them using email autoresponders, links on the Apple website, via customer support, and on collateral found in product boxes, stores, and trade shows. Customers access data direct from the database when searching for user groups, so please keep your records accurate. Apple customers are only referred to public groups.
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Random opportunities: Occasionally we get requests from internal Apple folks or other vendors who want help contacting the user groups. They typically offer the groups special discounts, partnership opportunities, vendor presentations, free merchandise, feedback on programs, etc. If your group information isn’t accurate, you won’t be asked to participate. All opportunities are carefully screened to protect your privacy.
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Internal advocacy: It’s far easier to justify resources for Apple user groups when we have accurate information about who they are, how many customers they touch, and the services they provide in their local communities.
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Any other questions?
Check out other questions and answers or contact us.
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