Complete Systems Design Information Technology Solutions

October 8, 2008

Although early beta copies or pre-beta copies of Windows 7 were distributed at PDC in October, general public beta testing is scheduled for early 2009.

Many believe the beta testing process used in Vista was partially responsible for the lack luster reviews of the product when it was released.  Whether MS used the wrong process to select beta testers of if they just ignored any of the less than favorable feedback is unclear.   What is clear is that MS is going to need to improve Windows 7 significantly if it is ever to gain ground over Windows XP and turn the tide of OSX converts.   Microsoft's client base is with businesses and businesses want a faster OS more than a pretty OS.  

A business can't justify rolling out a new OS because Tom in accounting wants transparent borders on his Windows.  It is however easy to justify an OS upgrade if it performs better than XP in copying files to and from the server, opening applications, video editing, boot time and is more stable without annoying the end user with a UAC popup every time they attempt to perform any task.   While Vista was clearly not the right OS for most major businesses, hopefully Windows 7 will be what Vista should have been and the beta testing process will actually provide MS feedback that they listen to instead of ignore.

Read the Full Article  - ComputerWorld