I prefer to only use it to keep track of running programs. My monitor is pretty small (17 inch 1024x768). If I use it to launch programs there won't be room for that plus any miscellaneous programs that I might use.
I set it up to do Quick Launch instead and Now I like it. Windows 7 really is...
17inchmonitor
aero theme
classic menu
compatibility
customization
desktop
display
interface
old ways
performance
preferences
programs
quick launch
running programs
taskbar
user interface
vista
windows 7