1. + Windows 8

2. + Introduction http://www.microsoftstore.com/store

3. + Features Support for both PCs and tablets (first version of windows to do so Touch-centric, Tiles-based User Interface (customisable through mosaic of tiles / apps) Charms (to quickly configure settings and individual apps) Snap Multi-tasking (easily run two apps, side by side) Two Touch Keyboards (virtual - one traditional and a ‘thumbs’ keyboard for non touch typists) http://www.notebookreview.com/default.asp?newsID=6268

4. + Advantages Faster Startup – can be twice as fast as Windows 7 Apps, apps, apps – full screen, touch friendly, web connected apps SkyDrive integration – Microsoft’s Cloud Improved Security Touch input, as well as traditional keyboard/mouse input http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2411451,00.asp

5. + Disadvantages No start menu Users may require training Hardware upgrades required to utilize the touch interface, however will work fine with traditional methods http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/tech-manager/windows- 8-infographic-pros-and-cons-at-a-glance/7911 http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/tech-manager/windows- 8-infographic-pros-and-cons-at-a-glance/7911

6. + System Specs For use on a PC Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with support for PAE, NX, and SSE2 (more info)(more info) RAM: 1 gigabyte (GB) (32-bit) or 2 GB (64-bit) Hard disk space: 16 GB (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit) Graphics card: Microsoft DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM driver http://windows.microsoft.com/en-AU/windows-8/system- requirements http://windows.microsoft.com/en-AU/windows-8/system- requirements

7. + Business expectations for Windows 8 Sales for Windows 8 are significantly lower than expected Many business’s are planning to continue using Windows 7. “Microsoft took a big risk with Windows 8 trying to make it more touch friendly. It has confused consumers. With Apple's iPad providing a good enough alternate to a full on laptop, Microsoft's Windows franchise is at risk.” http://www.businessinsider.com/microsoft-windows-8-sales- 2012-11#ixzz2DJTw2x5t iPad http://www.businessinsider.com/microsoft-windows-8-sales- 2012-11#ixzz2DJTw2x5t

8. + Issues & Problems There have been many reported technical problems with Windows 8 Suffering from random reboots Crashes Syncing issues Poor battery life http://www.valuewalk.com/2012/11/windows-phone-8-reboot- issues-being-investigated-by-microsoft/ http://www.valuewalk.com/2012/11/windows-phone-8-reboot- issues-being-investigated-by-microsoft/ http://www.inquisitr.com/405428/windows-phone-8-reboots- battery-drain-issues-leading-to-mass-complaints/

9. + Summary / Recommendations For those who are upgrading their existing hardware, Windows 8 would be a good accompaniment and is a great time to upgrade A nice clean, new interface, very different to their previous version Workshops / training may need to be provided for business’ that are going to upgrade