Final Cut X – Apple’s Response to Criticism

I’m still in a state of denial.  How could the Apple screw up Final Cut so bad? Is Apple really dumbing down the software in order to hit a larger market?  Is this really iMovie Pro?

Maybe, but I remain hopeful (note my denial)…hopeful the Final Cut Pro team can perform a course correction and address the laundry list of issues.

Final Cut Pro X is a breakthrough in nonlinear video editing. The application has impressed many pro editors, and it has also generated a lot of discussion in the pro video community. We know people have questions about the new features in Final Cut Pro X and how it compares with previous versions of Final Cut Pro. Here are the answers to the most common questions we’ve heard.

– Apple.com

Check out Apple’s answer sheet, which attempts to provide a status update on the missing features: http://www.apple.com/finalcutpro/faq/

Beyond the missing features and new user interface; many professionals are loosing trust in Apple. Where was the communication with the pro users before launch?  For some, this program is their livelihood!  Many businesses, schools, and non-profit organizations invested their limited resources into the Final Cut Pro workflow.  These folks invested in years of training and skill development.  I’m not opposed to change, I think many of who work with technology actually enjoy changes, upgrades, and improvements.  Somehow it seems Apple failed in their product development and launch execution.

Larry Jordan posted a blog article a few days ago criticizing Apple’s handling of the product development process, the lack of communication, and issues of accountability. Well worth the read: “Who’s Accountable?”

For me, I continue to hold out hope that Apple will fix the problems and begin the restore credibility.  That said, part of me fears it may be too late!