Today the much awaited Windows 7 was officially launched and fanatics, critics and normal users have been waiting to see what this new system have to offer. As by far the largest percentage of the computers on this planet runs some sort of Windows, it is obvious that a large number of users have been curious to see the improvements.

Windows 7 is without any doubt built taking in to account all the problems that users experienced with Windows Vista. This operation system (OS) was set out to revolutionize the way we used computers, at the same time offering an amazing visual experience. Problem was that the OS required extreme computer power just to run fairly.

Leaving aside the actual features of the new Windows (which you can read about here), what’s really interesting about Windows 7 is the way the system was created. Microsoft have been known for keeping their R&D kept in secret until launching their products, and not always listening to partners and consumers. Having an almost monopolic status on the market for many years made this possible, but competitors are gaining market share, and I’m sure Microsoft figured that is was time to collaborate. This came out as a new development form where the company involved major PC producers to include their comments and suggestions.

According to CNET, Microsoft held regular meetings with big players in the PC industry and this way received valuable feedback and the possibility to streamline their product with new technologies in the pipeline. By working together the product have been designed to meet the customer’s current needs, and also take in to account future features. Hopefully what we’ll see this time is a product that works well, works with the applications most users require and have a simple and fast loading interface that allows fast data transactions.

Without saying that this was 100% open collaboration it was definitely a step in the right direction. Knowing what the PC producers can supply, and mixing that with Microsoft’s knowledge, and regular PC users’ needs, the products should be amazing. This is a lesson to be learned, and can be applied in many industries. Listen to the customer, work with your suppliers, and you’ll achieve things you never even imagined possible.

I’m looking forward to try it myself eventually.