The New Look in Office 2007
On Tuesday, I talked about changes to the Windows operating system. Closely linked to Windows is another Microsoft product, Office. Unlike Vista, the 2007 version of Office does include significant changes to the user interface. These changes will affect almost all users, but, after a while, users will be able to quickly complete most tasks.
The main difference is the new ribbon. The ribbon is basically a collection of toolbars grouped by task that, along with the quick access bar, replace both the file menu and button bars in Office XP. Microsoft claims their research found this to make Office easier to use. Many users, however, disagree. Most of this is probably reluctance to change as the new ribbon does make commands more accessible. As an aid, the old keyboard shortcuts from Office XP work, but you must know the complete sequence in order to use it.
The other main interface difference in Office 2007 is a live preview of some formatting changes. This can be useful, but I would argue not a reason to upgrade. It is of course faster than selecting and undoing if it doesn’t look right, but not all style changes provide a live preview so it seems to still be a work in progress.
Check back next week for a more in-depth look at the Office 2007 system. Until then, if you want to a look at Office 2007 for yourself, download the free trial from the Microsoft website.
What do you think? Is the Office 2007 interface a radical change from XP? Are you holding off on upgrading because of the interface? Are there any changes you would not have made? I look forward to your comments.