Application Spotlight

One night last week, I bit the bullet and formatted my laptop. This means, I reset Windows. I removed all files and applications and started over. It’s almost like getting a new computer, except you don’t get a new toy. You get a fresh install of Windows.

Why on Earth would I put myself through this seemingly daunting chore, you ask? Well, I’ll spare you the dull details, but this thing only has 3yrs of wear’n’tear on it. I was overcome with rage trying to “fix” some software bug, and patience was all out. Ultimately it was easier, faster, and less frustrating to tell Windows to reset. So, here we go.

Windows very recently announced their plan to completely do away with password logins for Windows 10 computers, deciding to go the way of cell phone and other mobile gadgets by pushing users to rely on biometrics or PIN numbers. It seems as though the “desktop” has finally caught up with the mobile, albeit with one BIG difference: Microsoft won’t even allow the option of a password.

I recently learned that Microsoft is replacing Skype for Business with an application called Teams.  This was big news to me. I have used Skype for Business (aka Lync) for half a decade now, and it’s been a tremendous tool. But I think we all know Microsoft is trying hard to compete with Slack. My initial reaction was frustration, because Microsoft is replacing a popular and productive tool with a busy-looking application, and who likes change, anyway? So, what am I going to do? Complain and fight it? Take my ball home and cry? Nope! As an IT professional with 90% of his clients using Microsoft, it’s my job to learn it. So I started testing. Here are some of my take-aways, and the more valuable features of Microsoft Teams.