Unlike the much-maligned Vista operating system, Microsoft’s next-generation entry appears to be enhancing business processes and productivity.

Designed to run more simply and compatibly with legacy programs than Vista, the beta version of Windows 7 is getting reasonably positive reviews. Official release is scheduled for October 22.

For the most part, Vista and Windows XP users alike will find the Windows 7 upgrade straightforward. A free Windows 7 extension will allow users to run XP applications on the Windows 7 platform—effectively solving compatibility problems.

Windows 7 also will work with less processing power and memory than Vista, minimizing the need to upgrade hardware in these cash-strapped times. Among ways that Windows 7 will prove an upgrade to productivity and processes are:

1. Better pricing scheme. Only buy what you need. Basics-to-advanced versions will be available. Current reports say that Windows 7 PCs will ship with all versions preloaded and ready to be made operational with a credit card.
2. User-friendliness. Windows 7 is easier to use. Proponents tout the simplicity and ease of using the system to communicate, connect and browse. Windows 7 has improved search results relevance and ease of understanding.
3. Faster document search, startup and shutdown. For time-strapped users, Windows 7 offers faster startup and shutdown times. Mobile users will see improved battery life (possibly up to 33 percent better than previous levels), extending performance opportunities when out of the office.
4. More enthusiastic developer buy-in. According to media reports, more than 10,000 software developers already are working on Windows 7 products, including drivers—versus about 4,000 at this point in Vista’s development.
5. Improved security and simplicity. Windows 7 offers such security protection as secure connections to corporate networks, thumb drive data safeguards, and ability to block programs from sensitive system areas.
6. Better networking. Windows 7 promotes improved wireless networking, another Vista problem area. It also features a new concept called HomeGroup, which streamlines the process of getting multiple computers into file and resource sharing mode simply by joining a group. In theory, it’s simpler than having to joining a workgroup that requires all computers to have the correct name and setup protocol.
7. Improved virtualization. Windows 7 is helping drive productivity and streamline expenditures with virtualization options. Virtualization software enables one piece of hardware to run multiple operating system images and functions at the same time.

As businesses continue to search for ways to streamline operations and boost productivity in a never-ending pursuit of a better bottom line, they may well find the investment in Windows 7 a small price to pay for a bigger picture payoff.

(This article is adapted from Gene Smith’s August Denver Business Journal column. Explore the business case for an upgrade at our Wednesday, Sept. 23 Business Leaders FREE webinar from noon-1 pm. Among topics to be addressed are: Why do I need a new operating system? What compatibility challenges exist? When is the right time to upgrade? To register for this webinar offered by Denver-based Mission Critical Systems, click here.)



Tags: Article, IT Management, IT Services, Windows 7

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