28 October 2009
There has been excitement across the globe, especially in the Nigerian IT market as the software giant, Microsoft last week released Windows 7, the newest and the best operating system (OS). With the launch, the Windows 7 software is now available to be installed on new computers and for purchase in computer retail outlets across the world.
With the new software launched in the global market which is already attracting patronage , Microsoft, it was learnt decided to take a step back in time remind people of what makes computers tick, the history of Microsoft Windows and why the Windows 7 launch matters to Nigerians as Africans in the first instance, and as technology enthusiasts.
For users who may not know, operating systems take many forms, and over the years they have changed dramatically, particularly in the way that people interact with them.
For over 25 years, Windows has been the foundation for some of the biggest transformations in the IT industry. Whether it was igniting the PC revolution or making computers easier to use, Windows has become the language that over a billion people speak in every country and culture around the world. More than a billion people around the world, of every language and every culture, it was learnt, use Windows every day at work, at home and on the go.
For one thing, as each version of Windows was released over the years, more features, better ways of working together with team members, staying in touch with friends and family, and general computer usage have been refined and simplified to allow almost anyone to quickly learn how to use a computer.
So what is different about Windows 7?
In developing this new operating system, Microsoft was given the opportunity to listen and learn from a billion users and partners in the development of Windows 7- you spoke, Microsoft listened and this is the result!
Windows 7 is the most well researched, well planned Windows operating system.
Speaking at a press briefing announcing the launch in Lagos last week, Emmanuel Onyeje, Country Manager for Microsoft Nigeria noted with optimism that , "Windows 7 represents years of in-depth listening to our customers and partners around the globe, and is the most well-researched, well-planned Windows release ever."
"Eight million people took part in our Windows 7 beta testing program worldwide, including Windows users from across the African continent. This input and feedback helped shape Windows."
"In fact 91% of Windows 7 Release Candidate testers told us they would recommend Windows 7. We are incredibly excited and humbled at the response so far," he added.
No matter where users intend utilizing Windows 7, it has something for everyone:
Windows 7 works the way you want, enables you to get more done and keeps your work safe.
For enterprises, Windows 7 was designed to meet the rigorous demands of the enterprise. It makes users productive anywhere, delivers enhanced security and control to reduce risk, and streamlines PC manageability to reduce costs.
An enterprise customer who is already using Windows 7 described the software as excellent. Similarly, Mr Olayinka Oni, Chief Information Officer (CIO) at First City Monument Bank (FCMB) described the software as the best operating system, adding that, "Windows 7 is an excellent Operating System. We are migrating everyone in our organisation to Windows 7. It is faster, less resource hungry, runs smoothly and has no issues."
Microsoft's partners who sell and distribute Windows 7 in Nigeria are just as excited at the opportunities Windows 7 will bring.
For Adanma Onuegbu, Chief Operations Officer (COO) at Signal Alliance, "Windows 7 is beautiful."
"It is very fast and easy to use. There are not too many processes to get what you want done. I am so excited about Windows 7 and we are already recommending it to all our customers. Microsoft really took time to create this OS. It is a great improvement on the previous ones," she said.
Microsoft has developed different versions of Windows 7 to cater to the different things people want to do with their PC: Windows 7 Starter and Windows 7 Home Basic - ideal for first-time PC-buyers or those looking to purchase a PC loaded with Windows 7 on a budget. Windows 7 Home Premium - the best edition for consumers, Windows 7 Home Premium provides the best gaming and entertainment experience on your PC. Windows 7 Professional is ideal for the small to medium sized business user and has all the features you need to do your job, along with all the great media and entertainment features of Windows 7 Home Premium.
Windows 7 Enterprise and Windows 7 Ultimate are the most versatile and powerful editions and are designed to address the needs of both enterprise customers and consumers who run high-end computers and want every feature of Windows 7.
Windows 7 is available in 14 languages today including English, French and Portuguese and will be available in 19 further languages by 31 October. Microsoft is working to ensure that Windows 7 will be available in local African languages including Igbo, Hausa and Yoruba within 18 to 24 months.
Windows 7 will be available in Nigeria on new computers and at certified Microsoft resellers including Office R us, Game, PC Outlet, Park 'n' Shop and Marquis from mid November 2009.
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