Q&A about the Windows Start Menu and Taskbar
17 days ago
- #Windows
- #UI Design
- #Behavioral Psychology
- The interviewee was approached by a journalist in August 2021 to discuss their design of the Windows Start Menu and Taskbar.
- They studied behavioral psychology under B.F. Skinner at Harvard, which influenced their work at Microsoft.
- Initially an Apple user, they joined Microsoft in 1992 after a friend encouraged them to apply, despite not being a Windows user.
- Their lack of Windows experience was an advantage, allowing them to see usability issues others missed.
- They worked on the Windows Chicago project, focusing on making the UI easier for non-expert users.
- The Start Menu and Taskbar were designed in June 1993, inspired by usability testing struggles.
- Initial designs included a simplified shell called ClearView, but the Start Menu and Taskbar proved more effective.
- The name 'Start' was chosen over 'System' for being more user-friendly.
- Usability testing revealed significant challenges, including a rocket scientist struggling with basic tasks.
- The Start Menu and Taskbar were initially designed for the top of the screen but moved to the bottom due to aesthetic and Mac similarity concerns.
- The interviewee is surprised by the longevity of their designs, still in use in 2021.
- They suggest that modern computing needs might require a completely new design rather than incremental updates.
- They express pride in the global recognition of their work and openness to returning to OS design.