Steve Jobs’ health and the future of Apple

During the last few days, it has been saddening to read about Steve Jobs’ worsening health problems. Regardless of where you stand on the various Mac-related techie debates, it cannot be denied that the man turned that company around, making it into one of the most innovative and successful ones in the industry. Under his tenure, it has also produced some very high quality products. While some people scoff at the high prices associated (or nitpick about aspects of the products they dislike), it seems fair to say that Apple’s sense of style and sophistication has impacted the whole industry in a positive way. Pixar is also a notable success

Of course, it is foolish for anyone to try and write Mr. Jobs’ professional obituary so soon. He has had one round with serious illness already and returned, to say nothing of his twelve year stint away from Apple. With luck, a bit of time away from the stress and the spotlight will allow him to recover from whatever health issues he is facing. It should also give Apple an opportunity to think more seriously about a succession strategy. As closely tied as the company and Mr. Jobs remain in the public eye, the former must seriously prepare for the time when the latter will no longer be at the helm.

Author: Milan

In the spring of 2005, I graduated from the University of British Columbia with a degree in International Relations and a general focus in the area of environmental politics. Between 2005 and 2007 I completed an M.Phil in IR at Wadham College, Oxford. I worked for five years for the Canadian federal government, including completing the Accelerated Economist Training Program, and then completed a PhD in Political Science at the University of Toronto in 2023. View all posts by Milan