Microsoft takes a minimalist approach with Windows 7’s interface design Part – 1

After the disaster that was Vista (in the sense that so many seemed to find it less usable than desired) Microsoft needed to take a new approach when designing their new operating system.  Windows 7 is a clear back to the basics statement by Microsoft, cutting down on frivolous features and glitzy interface design, all of which made Vista so annoying to users.  Instead, Windows 7 has put its focus on utility and usability over flashiness, a concept that is not new to usability experts.  With Windows 7, Microsoft streamlines processes related to apps and tasks and has tried to create an operating system based on compatibility and integration with external and internal features. Windows 7 features a user interface design that barely wants you to recognize its presence, let alone have to think about it, only when you need to. Of course, just because Windows 7 is minimalist and the antithesis to Vista, doesn’t mean it is perfect.  Let’s look at the pros and cons of the new Microsoft user interface design.

The good interface design features…

The following are a few of the features that provide Vista haters with some relief:

1.    Cleaner Taskbar: The Windows 7 taskbar is less cluttered and users can switch between apps with more ease.
2.    Action Center Alerts: Windows alerts are now relegated to the “Action Center” which places the alerts in a queue rather than interrupting (as Vista did) you mid-internet search or any other action.  You can respond to alerts on your own schedule.
3.    New System Tray controls: The controls on the system tray disallow the overflow of unwanted apps that interrupt you with messages and updates.
4.    Jump Lists: These are context sensitive taskbar menus that allows you to work in apps before you even open them.