We purchased a new desktop (Dell) for my son this year that was pre-loaded with Windows 7. While I don’t have my CLNC^® files on it, I have used it (while he was at school!) to see what it can do. So far, I really like it.

I use a Windows XP system, and my husband has Vista. While I can find nothing I really enjoy about the Vista experience, I do see a few things carried over to Windows 7 – like the way the taskbar and start menu function.

Start up and shut down are quick and painless with 7 and basic usage is intuitive. There are many things I haven’t delved into yet (since the kids are at school only so long each day…) but Word is definitely better. It takes a bit of practice to get used to the new toolbars, but all of the old functionality is still there, along with new tricks and gadgets. You can save your work (word, excel) into older versions of Windows so your clients can read what you have done yet you have the opportunity to work in the newer environment.

One of my favorite enhancements – the post-it notes that can sit on the desktop are quite a useful feature as I keep lists everywhere.

Overall, I give it 2 thumbs up (so far) and would recommend the change…just not in the middle of a big case. You want time to play.

Thanks for your tips Tom, I look forward to reading them each week!

I have nothing but great things to say about my new computer with Windows 7 pre- installed! I had XP and held out without switching to Vista and I’m glad I did.

I obtained your recommendations from the community page for office set-up and didn’t see Windows 7 listed but assumed it was all the same minus “Vista.” I purchased the Home Premium since I am not networking lots of computers and now have my old Toshiba as my back up.

Stats: I have an Intel Core 2 Quad processor Q8400, 8 GB memory, 1 TB HDD, Media Manager, TV Tuner (which I wasn’t looking for), NVIDIA GeForce. GT220 1024 MB, DVD super multi-drive.

I love it! It’s a very fast start up/shut down and super fast with my high speed internet and also great with word processing. I went from the old Word 2003 to Office Professional 2007. The tool bars are pretty convoluted and have lots of bells @ whistles but after using them a bit, I like the extra features and options. Especially the drop down which allows you to put the finished reports into different formats; like PDF or back to ‘03 for attorneys that are still using it. The cover page options that auto populate are also wonderful!

I’m working in 2 screens so the drag and snap feature of Windows 7 isn’t that valuable to me. I have to study the tutorials on how to organize my files- right now I have things out on the desktop; I had to just dive in and start with it to meet my deadlines.

All in all, I have to give it a big thumbs up, but since I never had to endure the “Vista experience,” my opinion may not be that valuable. I still have lots to learn to use it fully but I can navigate around and get my reports done.

I really enjoy your tech tips and know-how so keep up the great work-Tom.

Thanks!