It’s been almost two weeks since I took the plunge and installed Windows 7 RC 1 on my primary work system, and so far, the experience can be summed up as “wow.”

Anyone who knows my company knows that our allegiance lies with our customers and not with a particular brand, product or vendor.  For example, if after a consultation we feel that a Macbook Pro is what you need to get your work done, then that is what we’ll recommend you get.  My team and I won’t try to convince you that you’re making a bad decision based on what we happen to have in stock.

With that said, you can believe us when we tell you that this up-and-coming version of Windows won’t force you to upgrade: it will make you want to upgrade.

One of the primary issues with Vista, and the reason why people didn’t embrace the new OS, was that the user interface and design changes felt disconnected, as if the OS  was designed by committee rather than created with the end-user in mind.  Another issue that added insult to injury was the UAC (User Access Controls) that premiered with Vista, which  created the illusion of security rather than actually providing it (since most users shut off UAC in order to actually get work done on their PCs).

With Windows 7, the disconnects and false-sense of security are gone.  Microsoft finally, finally, FINALLY did what they should have done years ago: they asked users what they wanted instead of telling them what they are getting.  The result is a more fluid, stable, fast and flexible operating system, the likes of which are a long-time coming.

Over the next few weeks, as our team gets more familiar with Windows 7, we will be posting more thoughts, opinions, how-to’s and Q&A’s for anyone interested in learning more about Microsoft’s next offering.  It’s an exciting time to be in computing, and it’s an even more exciting time to consider moving away from XP.