As Microsoft announced their next operating system with the title of “Windows 7”, many question if Microsoft is attempting to revert back to their roots. Utilizing a more traditional numbered naming scheme may mean that Windows is attempting to streamline its offering and get back to basics. The highly anticipated Vista- successor may just be the most important release for the software giant to date. After what most would call a downright failure with Windows Vista, Microsoft appears to be in a situation where it needs to regain the satisfaction of its customers. Windows 7 must deliver; it’s as simple as that.

Windows 7 is comparable in name to its chief competitor: Apple’s OS X (pronounced “Oh Es Ten”) operating system. With the success and massive strides that Apple has been making within the personal computer industry, it is not a mystery as to why Microsoft would want to emulate the innovative California-based firm. Apple is the model for efficiency and ease-of-use, and let’s face it…Windows isn’t.

Microsoft engineer Mike Nash writes, “The decision to use the name Windows 7 is about simplicity.”

“The decision to use the name Windows 7 is about simplicity.”

This is a bit of a new strategy considering operating system releases from Microsoft have been built bigger and bulkier than the OS preceding it. Maybe Windows 7 can break the mold and focus on core functionality and efficiency instead of adding more features and useless functions.

Microsoft has used their shiny “Vista bowling ball” resulting in a 7 / 10 split. They must convert the spare using their brand new “Windows 7-lb. ball” or they stand a good chance of losing their customers to the elusive 10 pin; Apple’s OS X.