Understanding Windows 7 Compatibility
Maybe it will and maybe it won't (most likely the latter, as 7 has the same core as Vista, and most of Vista's application incompatibilities were ironed out years ago), but it helps to gain a better understanding of what "Windows 7 compatible" really means. Microsoft's Chris Jackson, a.k.a. "The App Compat Guy," offers a thorough explanation in What Does it Mean to be Compatible with Windows 7? Here's an excerpt: Compatible with Windows 7: The application has no bugs which stop you from getting your work done. It may have bugs, but they don't affect your business. In the end, this is all that matters to you! Note, however, that this also means that the only person who can verify this is you! An app may let somebody else get their work done (and, thus, to them is compatible) but the critical functionality you need might be the bit with the bug in it. The only way to tell is to try getting your work done using the application. Great stuff for CIOs and IT pros alike. And while we're on the subject of compatibility, be sure to check out these related posts: |
As your organization weighs its migration options, application compatibility is undoubtedly a key concern. After all, Vista was plagued by compatibility issues upon its launch, so it's only natural to think that a Windows 7 deployment will result in similar problems.
Comments (2)
Thanks for sharing this article.
From what we've seen from both IT Pros and CIOs alike, most users have not had any app compat issues so far with Windows 7. And those who have had issues with Windows 7 have been quick to turn to XP Mode for the solution and are really happy with it!
What are your thoughts on XP Mode? If you're on Twitter, we'd love to have you join in on the conversation @CIOsConnect
Thanks!
Alex
Microsoft Windows Client Team
Posted by MSFT_AlexT | January 14, 2010 8:10 PM
To my thinking, XP Mode removes all barriers to migrating to Windows 7 (well, except the cost :). I think it could particularly helpful in getting organizations to move to IE8, as they can continue running IE6 until compatibility is assured.
Posted by Migration Expert Zone Team
| January 14, 2010 9:46 PM