Windows 8 was a much anticipated updated to Microsoft computers. With Apple seemingly taking over the world; Bill Gates and co. had to pull something really spectacular out of the bag to win back their dwindling users.
The unveiling of Windows 8 certainly made an impact, but perhaps not the one Microsoft was hoping for.
Designed for touch-screen computers and tablets, this new operating system was clunky, complicated, and not very user friendly. Six months on; it’s time to ask yourself: should my business upgrade to Windows 8?
Here we look at the pros and cons, and help you decide if this is the right step forward for your company:
Cons
We’ll start with the bad.
Windows 8 comes complete with a truckload of complications, and can be a real hassle for businesses looking to upgrade all their computers. While those in your office might technically meet the requirements to run it for example; if they’re over two-years-old the computer will really struggle to support the Windows 8 operating system.
As we previously mentioned, Windows 8 works best on computers and tablets with a touch-screen functionality. The desktop has to be launched from a ‘metro-style’ start screen; something which many users find clunky. There’s no straight-forward ‘shut down’ option either. Users need to summon this from Microsoft’s charm buttons on the side of the screen.
This functionality works best for tablet users, and is can be really clumsy. For offices then, this metro screen just isn’t ideal. Most computing tasks for businesses are best suited to the mouse and keyboard; touch screen computers just aren’t ideal.
The final issue with Windows 8 is Internet Explorer 10. With the new operating system comes the latest update to the browser; something itself which brings complications for businesses. The updated IE 10 means you need to continuously cross browser test your website to ensure it displays correctly.
Your business might not have upgraded, but other users may have. You need to continuously be developing your site to ensure everyone gets a great user experience.
Pros
There are a number of pros to Windows 8 though; if it’s time to upgrade your office PCs, it’s worth understanding the full and balanced argument before you get started. After all, Windows 8 isn’t entirely bad. In fact, there are a number of points that set it apart from the competition.
The biggest plus of Windows 8 for business is the ability to quickly and easily work remotely. As the operating system works so well on mobiles, working remotely is much more efficient. What’s more; you can cap your 3G and 4G usage so you never exceed your monthly caps. Windows 8 also has increase security, ensuring that your business’s data is safe – wherever you access it from.
Windows 8 also boasts an impressive level of dual-monitor support; something which can really improve productivity in your business. While not every company requires every employee to use more than one screen, it is sometimes necessary.
This operating system is complete with a number of enhancements that simplify and enhance this process. Windows 8 has built on the capabilities of Windows 7, and gives users more flexibility and control when using two monitors. For example, users can configure the taskbar for each display; making it easy to display the applications you need and use the most.
While research has show that many businesses still prefer to use Windows 7, Windows 8 does have a number of features that boost productivity in a corporate setting. As with all technology upgrades, it’s important to assess their capability against your business needs before making the switch.
What do you think? Will you be upgrading your business computers to Windows 8?
