If that’s the case, then Microsoft needs to make sure that the Windows 9 interface is truly “adaptive” and know automatically whether the person is using, for example, a tablet, laptop or desktop PC, or a very large wall-mounted monitor, according to Michael Silver, a Gartner analyst. “This was a mess in Windows 8,” he said.
Microsoft also must make the process of moving to Windows 9 smoother than the process of migrating to a new Windows version has historically been, as evidenced by the difficulties involved most recently in upgrading from Windows XP and Windows 7 to Windows 8.
For example, depending on the case, moving to Windows 8 can involve having to manually back up and reinstall data and applications, as well as reconfigure settings, a prospect which prompts many businesses to hire consultants and migration experts often at great expense, especially if a significant number of PCs are involved.
“Upgrading or keeping Windows current should be like keeping a phone current,” Silver said. “It should be smarphone simple.”
Schedule
A related issue that Microsoft also should address is its decision to put Windows on a faster schedule of upgrades and releases, which many enterprise IT departments dislike. At minimum, Microsoft should add the option of a standard release track for enterprises that don’t want, or can’t, absorb a rapid pace of OS changes, Silver said. “There are a lot of organisations that don’t want to be on a fast track for Windows upgrades,” he said.
There have been a number of instances where customers have cried foul over this recently. For example, when it released Windows 8.1 Update in April, Microsoft also determined that Windows 8.1 users had 30 days to make the move or else they wouldn’t be able to download the next batch of enhancements, bug patches and security fixes that would be released for the OS in May.
After complaints from both consumer and enterprise users of Windows 8.1, Microsoft extended the deadline, but upset customers still felt like Microsoft twisted their arm to get them to move quickly to the 8.1 Update.
To make matters more confusing and bothersome for Windows 8.1 users, Microsoft allowed those who had stayed on Windows 8 to continue to receive all security and non-security updates through January 2016.
Microsoft also needs to do a better job of keeping enterprise customers informed about the future roadmap for Windows, according to Gillen. “They haven’t been clear on that with Windows 8,” he said. “Enterprises need directional information from Microsoft on how the product will look like in the future.”
Subscribers 0
Fans 0
Followers 0
Followers