Jefferson Graham has written an interesting article on USA Today examining the success of Apple’s retail outlets. In particular, Graham is impressed with Apple’s “Genius Bars,” where consumers can get advice and technical assistance from Apple staffers about the company’s products. “The concept has struck such a chord that the original 10-foot Genius Bar has been extended to 40 feet in many stores and has gone from four customer stools to 20,” notes Graham. “Reservations are now accepted online.”