What's up with Windows 10? Because 7, 8, 9.

Brodie Krause,
IT Manager

This summer marked the beginning of a new era for Microsoft’s long-standing operating system. This is not just a new iteration of Windows, but a powerful shift in the way Microsoft does business. It was such a major change, that they skipped Windows 9 entirely and went straight to 10. You could see the difference right away, as Microsoft offered free upgrades for the first year for users running Windows 7, 8, and 8.1. An offer you may be questioning whether you should act upon.

Anytime Windows gets upgraded, there will always be the question of compatibility. Do my programs and applications work on the new platform? This has been becoming less and less of an issue in recent versions, but it is still a concern. This is especially a concern for those of us running software that dates back to XP or (cringe) before. I cannot speak to your specific applications, but my point is that it’s something you need to plan around. Before you jump in and start upgrading everyone to Windows 10, maybe do one or two machines just to see what works and what doesn't.

I think the biggest challenge with this update facing Microsoft customers is the user interface, how things look and how common actions are performed. It’s much less jarring for those brave souls who already moved from 7 to 8 or 8.1. But even then, there are some major changes and you’re going to need to plan for training your staff on how to use it.

Microsoft has a history of alternating between really good and really bad Windows releases, and in my opinion and experience with Windows 10, that rule definitely holds up. My recommendation to you would be to definitely get a plan in place for making the move before you start having to pay for the upgrades next July.

This article originally appeared in Modern Memorialization, Trigard Memorials' weekly electronic newsletter featuring information for the funeral industry. Sign up for your free subscription at http://www.trigard.com/thursdays.

Time to say farewell to Windows XP

Brodie Krause,
IT Manager

What operating system is powering the computers in your office? More than likely a majority of you are still running a version called Windows XP. Did you know, as of last month, Microsoft is no longer offering support for Windows XP? It has been around since 2001, and with the rapid advancements of technology, it is surprising that Microsoft has supported it this long.

If you haven't begun the process of replacing your office computers, it's time to stop holding out. While you may have noticed the world did not end when Microsoft stopped supporting their long time running operating system, don't let that lull you into a false sense of security. With the lack of support by Microsoft, you will start to see issues with your computers as hackers begin to identify weaknesses. The quicker you can get rid of this ancient operating system, the better.

A few things to consider when on the hunt for a new operating system:

• Depending on your hardware, you may be able to keep your current machine and purchase an upgrade to Windows 7, a version of Windows that will be familiar and more stable than XP.
• You can purchase all new machines with Windows 7 pre-loaded.
• You can go with Windows 8, which has a less familiar user interface, but a longer shelf-life.

Whatever you decide to do, I suggest getting a plan in place and starting the process. Because, continuing to cling to Windows XP is only going to hurt you more in the long run.

This article originally appeared in Modern Memorialization, Trigard Memorials' weekly electronic newsletter featuring information for the funeral industry. Sign up for your free subscription at http://www.trigard.com/thursdays.