Forget the horror stories: Windows 8 looks good
(MoneyWatch) It's become fashionable among pundits to write off Microsoft's new (MSFT) Windows 8 platform. Surveys claim that most users don't plan to upgrade to the new operating system and that companies won't flock to it.
But much of the talk comes from a deep misunderstanding about how people and companies approach software upgrades, failing to consider how initial reluctance to use the tech is likely to fade away. Microsoft is betting big on the Windows 8 launch, but this isn't good money after bad.
- Microsoft earnings secondary to Surface, cloud
- Mirosoft's new Outlook (in more ways than one)
- Google is up and Microsoft down? Not quite
Ed Bott at sister publication ZDNet points out the fallacy in much of the criticism of Windows 8 in noting that it echoes the cool reception that Microsoft's Windows XP platform received on its debut in 2001. Most of that doom and gloom turned out to be off base -- 11 years after its introduction, XP still has huge market share.
Businesses move slowly
To understand where some "experts" are likely to be wrong in their predictions for Windows 8, start with corporate purchases. It's easy to forget how difficult and time consuming it is for corporations to shift to a new operating system. I often speak with representatives from a range of companies, from small outfits to firms to the largest corporations. Regardless of company size, a common topic is the work necessary to move to Windows 7. Yes, that's 7, not 8.
Microsoft Windows 8: Handy "how-to" tips from CNET
In short, a company can take years to get around to upgrading its tech platforms. The reasons include the following:
- Any custom software may have to be rewritten to run on a new operating system
- Browser-based applications for employees may depend on older versions of browsers not supported by the latest operating system
- Hardware may not be powerful enough or compatible with the new system, which means an upgrade involves the entire computer
- Corporate IT departments often have far more pressing duties, and a new client operating system rarely offers a significant financial benefit to the company
- The real deadline for a major upgrade is always when the vendor -- typically Microsoft -- officially ends support for an older version of the software
However, Microsoft has never seen immediate upgrade shifts by most corporate clients. It takes time, with later adoptions helping to fill in revenue over the years. Microsoft may be heavily dependent on Windows for driving sales, but it doesn't depend on a single iteration of the software. Expect the usual long uptake by businesses.
Consumers adapt quickly
As for the lack of consumer excitement about Windows 8, just because people say they have no immediate plans to upgrade doesn't mean that they won't wind up using the platform either at work or when they buy a new PC or laptop, as new devices will come equipped with the software. Even with PC unit sales down across the industry, that will still mean a lot of de facto upgrades.
People don't like change, and moving to what seems like a new operating system is part of that. However, people do eventually adapt after a few days with new software.
And some time I recently spent in one of Microsoft's new stores -- this one in upscale Orange County, Calif. Mall -- suggested to me that many people seem intrigued with Windows 8. There are some big changes to the user interface, of course, but most people will adapt relatively quickly.
Then there are the new form-factors available. I tried a number of machines with the operating system, from Ultrabooks that frankly seemed overpriced at $,1200 to the more attractive Microsoft Surface and a light Asus notebook that had a good feel and reasonable price tag. There is a lot that will catch the eye of buyers.
So pay no attention to any predictions that Windows 8 is dead on arrival. Ultimately, the market will make that decision. And remember, even Windows Vista sold a ton of copies, and it was a dog. If it did well commercially, it's hard to see why Windows 8 wouldn't.
Popular on MoneyWatch
- When it comes to vacations, the U.S. stinks 98 Comments
- Snapple co-founder Leonard Marsh dies at 80
- Reverse cell phone lookup service is free and simple
- TGI Fridays nailed for doctoring booze
- Amy's Baking Company could face legal 'nightmare'
- My company is ending OT pay, but not OT work
- How Bernanke's testimony affects investors
- Online learning gets fresh look from a heavyweight
BUT IT'S THE DANG HORRIBLE INSTALLER ALWAYS BUGGY SINCE WINDOWS 95. At some point, the years of user horror stories writ large over and over, mean WINDOWS IS TO BLAME. But as always, blames someone else, never itself.
Basta. Islam is peace, God couldn't get it right until 1611, and Windows 8 is a good OS that's easy to install and use. Brooklyn Bridge is for sale, too. And the Easter Bunny comes just after Santa Claus.
I'm so sick of the lying about Win8 I could scream.
Windows 8 is fun. I am more productive on Windows 8 than I was on Windows 7. The start screen always updates me with my internet connected life. I have a laptop in a dual screen setup and another smaller one I take to school. If you're curious I am a senior studying comp sci, so I might know what a computer is. Admittedly, I use Start8, but that's because I habitually go to my documents.
Despite that, I hate the fact they took away the start button. Even with the start screen, they should've left the start button as an option. And oh, stop hating, it's pretty childish.
It works just fine. You don't like the new modern/metro UI, then don't use it, go directly to the desktop it's a simple click when Windows starts. And since put my computer to sleep instead of shutting it down, I hardly ever see the metro UI.
You miss the start button? Poor you if you can't learn two easy keyboard shortcuts that easily replace it...
Those who hate on Windows 8 either didn't try it or are too dumb to adapt...