I continue to be very interested in the continued development concerning Windows 8. However, we must also be tolerant and understanding of the consumer and, in many cases, end-user's interpretation of the new features that are being introduced. There are many people who remain suspicions over why these drastic changes are being made to the graphical user interface on the desktop, and whether or not they actually benefit desktop users to a large extent.
However, my goal is not to continue this dissection of differences. It is, however, my goal, to impart a sense of commonality with each other. I truly believe that were we all sitting in the same room, that we would find the same number of things in common with each other as differences.
Windows 8 could turn out to RTM as a divisive issue for desktop and workstation users. If this is the case, the concept of planned obsolescence will be brought up again and again, until consumer concerns are hopefully address in Service Pack 1. At this time, this discussion is mere opinion and hearsay. However, it does behoove us, as members of the forum, to take into account all differences of opinion, including yours, Drew.
With that being said, we can find common ground on these forums. Many of us have found Windows 7 to be a liberating experience, in comparison to prior versions of Windows. As we continue to monitor closely the leaked information about Windows 8, we are still left until July, August, or perhaps even September at the latest for the final RTM ("release-to-manufacturer") bits to arrive on the scene.
If there does become a love/hate relationship with this version of Windows for the majority of consumers, this will become an enormous problem for Microsoft, and for consumers in general, who may face the prospect of planned obsolescence in the marketplace. We know that Microsoft is not a evil corporation, but the work that they produce and introduce as a corporation is designed to drive profit margins for their investors. If the profit motive has been instrumental in the development of Windows 8 - for other devices like tablets and phones, many consumer desktop users will be concerned. Admittedly, these "consumer desktop users" would be immediately disenfranchised by having to switch back and forth from the desktop to a touch-screen user interface.
Thus, we are in a pickle. We have to see what Microsoft rolls out as its final iteration, and whether or not public approval will go in their direction or not. Certainly, many people will be pleased to stay with Windows 7, whilst others will move quickly to a Windows 8 migration. The cost of adoption for mid-to-large corporations could be enormous if server administrators are not prepared for Server 8 and the new Active Directory/Group Policy for the Start Screen. Further chaos will ensue due to these failures. Adoption rates will slow if Windows 8 becomes perceived negatively in the media.
There are many variables at play, but the final variable will be personal preference and whether or not one appreciates the new UI or not. That variable will be the one to define the whirlwind of controversy already beginning to surround Windows 8. I continue to try to remain neutral for now, and reserve opinions for a later time.
But, with that being said,
It is OK to discuss Windows 8 on this site.
It is preferred that these discussions take place on Windows8Forums.com.
We are looking into find a way to resolve that for you (next team meeting).
There are many other Windows 8 resources to use, but we will not turn anyone away for disagreeing with a OS upgrade.
Our conduct and personal behavior towards each other is much more important than what happens over the next few years with Windows. We often times forget that, we, as human beings, do exist behind every computer screen. Thus, I please ask that we continue to maintain an atmosphere of civility and self-discipline, even in the face of irreconcilable differences of opinion. I remind you that these opinions are subjective - until testing reveals the advantages and disadvantages of this new system and framework.
