Windows 7 v. Windows 8 – Sinofsky leaves Microsoft? What is Happening?

Steven Sinofsky left Microsoft, and the word is he left because Windows 8 wasn’t the rocking success Steve Ballmer wanted.  Reports that the lack of a “start” button is causing people to adopt Windows 8 more slowly.

 

It’s the economy stupid!

Windows 8 Upgrade
Windows 8 Arrives

 

When things work, it can be tough to move on.  With the economy still the major question in many business owners minds, Microsoft has a challenge with Windows 8.  The iPad has become the cash register for small businesses everywhere.  NCR and IBM have to be in a minor panic.  Microsoft need patience and perseverance.

 

The surface will get the apps business needs quickly, but for the larger businesses, Windows 7 is still working.  Our office was 100% PC and iPhones beat out the mix of Windows Phones and Blackberrys we were using.  Then along came the iPad and MacBook Air.

 

Last week one of the laptops that we were using as a laptop/desktop took 15 minutes to boot.  That alone justifies a new computer, never mind it is the computer we do billing on.

 

We considered an iMac, and a Mac Mini and after passing the Microsoft Store in South Coast Plaza, the tide shifted.  After just 30 minutes of using a Windows 8 machine it was agreed we would give it a try.  Then a client offered a Surface to play with.  Sold.

 

When we upgraded our first computer to Windows 8.  We chose not to get a touch screen but instead bought the HP all in one that isn’t a touch screen.  While this sounds a little backwards, there was something up my sleeve, the Leap.

 

We found a Windows 8 PC, the HP All In One for a reasonable price.  We also learned that adding a second monitor to the touch screen versions caused issues with the touch screen operation.  Another argument to try the Leap.  We bought a 23″ Windows 8 All in One PC and a USB video adapter to add a second screen.

 

After getting started, I have to say if the rumors are true, Steve Ballmer was wrong.  It might take a while for people to get used to life without a start button, but phase shifts take time to happen.  Windows 8 is a phase shift.

 

Imagine a the Surface in the kitchen with Windows 8, and you can see what is happening with the stock market, Facebook and Twitter at a glance.  Walking into the office, a bigger version highlights email and family updates.  The way we gather information and use it today has changed the way we need to get the information to begin with.

 

Steven Sinofsky was a proponent of the new interface without a start button.  After just a couple of hours, I have to say he was right.  If Steve Ballmer didn’t fire Sinofsky, letting him go wasn’t a great idea either.

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