Key Updates Coming to Windows 8.1

Michele Warg
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Millions of administrative professionals use Windows software programs to manage email, create documents and presentations, and stay organized at work. Some users criticized Windows 8 because of its tablet-style user interface and lack of a Start menu, and Microsoft is responding to this criticism by releasing a Windows 8.1 update. This update should have a positive impact on the way you use the operating system at work.

 

Because people who use Windows 8 for business and personal use have complained that the Start button is missing in the latest version of the operating system, Microsoft is adding a Start hint to the taskbar in the updated version. This will make it easier to access your browser, office productivity programs, and other tools you use in the workplace. You will also have the option to go directly to your desktop instead of the Windows 8 Start screen, which will save you time and make it easier to get to work. The new Start button is not exactly like the one in previous versions of Windows, however. Instead of opening a list of programs and files, the Start button in Windows 8.1 will open a separate start page.

 

Your success as an administrative professional depends on your ability to access files and programs quickly. Microsoft plans to give you more flexibility when customizing your Start screen in Windows 8.1, so you will be able to access documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and apps faster than you can with Windows 8. The first release of Windows 8 also allowed you to move tiles around and personalize the appearance of your Start screen, but you will have more options when you switch to the updated version of the OS.

 

The PC Settings module in Windows 8.1 will allow you to access all of the settings on your machine without having to access the Control Panel. This will make it easier to adjust your screen resolution, view your computer specifications, and change your power management profile. This is especially helpful for administrative professionals who must make regular adjustments to their settings to accommodate different types of projects. This will also come in handy if your employer purchases a new monitor for your workstation. The best resolution for your machine depends on the size and shape of your monitor, so this new feature is time-saving for those who perform clerical duties.

 

With this Windows 8 update, Microsoft is accelerating its development cycle so it can meet the needs of users by releasing annual updates. Windows 8.1 has several features that will help you save time and increase your productivity, making it a valuable update for anyone in the administrative field. You may even find it easier to teach other administrative professionals to use the updated version of Windows 8 for office productivity and email management tasks, making it a good investment for your company.

 

(Photo courtesy of jscreationsz / freedigitalphotos.net)

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