Windows 7 Themes are winners

As I mentioned in a previous post, there’s lots to like about the new Windows 7 user interface (UI). I find that I’ve changed my behavior due to this particular enhancement.(See below)

I’m speaking about the rich collection of desktop background themes – yep, themes. No longer is there just a bunch of boring and outdated images to cover the desktop. These improved backgrounds now come in packages of multiple themed images, and they are stunning. ( You still have the option to go with single standard backgrounds if you’d like – Basic and Classic are still available).

In addition to the out-of-the-box collection that comes with the Windows 7 install, many more are available online – there’s a direct link to additional themes within the Personalization window (right-click anywhere on the desktop to bring it up), which brings you to the Microsoft Personalization Gallery. Here, you’ll find a wide array of Featured and International collections. Just click on the download link, double click it and Windows 7 changes your theme and it’s now part of your collection.

Oh, and my behavior change – I now keep my desktop clean and free of all icons and shortcuts – programs are easy enough to find with the search feature and the availability to “pin” your favorite programs to the taskbar mitigate the need for desktop shortcuts. In this way not only do I stay better organized but I now have a clear view of the beautiful images that grace my desktop.

Here’s a short video on working with Windows 7 desktop background themes

Let me know what you think and if you know of some other good theme collections