The Microsoft Windows 10 operating system has been out for years already but some business establishments have just begun to transition from Windows 7 to Windows 10. Microsoft operating systems beyond Windows 7 have been a slight bane to non-technology centric users due to the expansive user interface changes. Microsoft seems to have settled with its change of the “Start Menu” for Windows 10, finding it closest to the user experience of Windows 7 and making it the most suitable choice for businesses. As a user who has used Windows 10 in a business environment for a couple years, I can say that Windows 10 is not scary and users may find Windows 10 to be a more productive operating system to use with its new features.

1. Window Snapping

Window Snapping allows you to fit two window screens inside the frame of your monitor’s resolution.
  • This feature is available in Windows 7, it is easier to use in Windows 10.
  • Available for multi-monitor support as well

Shortcuts:

  • Windows + Arrow Right = Snap window to right side of screen
  • Windows + Arrow Left = Snap windows to right side of screen
  • Drag and drop windows to left or right side of screen

2. Creating Links on your Desktop + Start Menu

Add shortcuts for your favorite programs to your desktop or Start menu and you can quickly access your favorite applications by clicking a tile.
  • You may drag program icons from the start menu and place them on the desktop as a shortcut link. Look for the “Link” symbol and icon while dragging to desktop
  • If you right click on a program icon, you also have the option of “send to -> Desktop (Create Shortcut)
  • You may drag and drop start menu icons into “Start Menu Groups”

3. Start Menu Search Tool

Windows 10 has a remarkable way of quickly indexing your programs and files making it easy to search for programs and files you may be having difficulty locating.
  • Simply start typing when the start menu open.

4. Windows 10 Action Center

This is a new feature of Windows 10 that is intended to be a replacement interface for Windows Control Panel programs. It features a guided way of configuring settings within your Windows 10 operating system.
  • Action Center can be opened by clicking on the notifications icon in the bottom right and clicking “All Settings” or click on the gear icon on the windows start menu.

5. Multiple Virtual Desktops

This is a newer feature that is geared towards Windows Power Users who want to take advantage of multiple desktop UIs to handle different aspects of their work. Windows allows you to configure and switch between multiple desktop setups. Perhaps one could create a desktop for “Documentation” or perhaps a desktop could be made to use when you are off-site somewhere else. There is a lot of potential for this feature for users who have a wide range of use on their computers.
  • Click on the “Task View” button to bring up a view of all open windows
  • On bottom right, see “Add Desktop” button
  • You are able to switch between desktops actively using the “Task View” button

Operating System Interface Guidelines

Windows 10 has changed around its look as it relates to icons and naming of certain system utilities and programs. Providing an overview of those changes may be beneficial to new users of Windows 10:
  • “My Computer” is now named “This PC”
  • “Devices and Printers” has been moved and renamed to “Devices -> Printers and Scanners” in the new Windows 10 Action Center
  • Right clicking the start menu brings up additional accessibility options that users may find useful
  • The “Show Desktop” button is still on far lower right hand side of desktop but it is much smaller.
  • If you drag a window and shake it on your desktop, it will send other windows to minimize.
  • “File Explorer” is still located on start menu under a folder icon.