Article written by Jason Reading, director of Comcity Technology.

Microsoft's launch of Windows 7 back in October 2009 was a godsend for many of us running Windows Vista. So what is the verdict six months on? Is Windows 7 really making a difference to real estate agents around the country?

Windows 7 really does help you get more done

Most IT experts agree that Windows 7 has what it takes to improve business productivity and the feedback from our real estate customers backs up these claims. Windows 7 gets up and running quicker and is more reliable than any other Microsoft operating system. It enables faster startup, shutdown, sleep, and resume from standby. Ok, this is not ground breaking and it's what you would really expect from a new operating system, but there are some features that have really impressed:

1. Quick access icons at the bottom of your screen link you directly to the tools and documents you use most, eliminating time wasted clicking through menus and folders.
2. The new Windows Desktop Search helps you find that client record, email or application you need from your computer or network almost instantly.
3. Improved battery usage efficiencies also mean that you get a lot more life out of your laptop while you're out on the road.
4. If you are out and about and unable to connect back to the office, the improved Offline Files functionality enables you to automatically synchronise between your PC and the Network the next time you connect (so you're always working with the latest file versions).

The productivity improvements in Windows 7 mean you can spend less time on your computer and more time selling your properties.

It safeguards your work, but don't drop your guard completely

Do you carry a lot of sensitive information with you on your laptop such as legal contracts or client data? This information can come under threat from spyware, theft, hard disk failure or if your laptop is stolen.

Windows 7 has a new Advanced Backup option that lets you schedule a periodic backup to your local computer or even better, to a network location such as a server. Then, if your file is lost or becomes corrupted Windows 7 will help you to restore previous versions of files.

We think Windows 7 has come a long way in safeguarding your work but we're not suggesting you uninstall your security software just yet. The security features you get from dedicated security manufacturers such as Trend Micro or Symantec are still more comprehensive compared to what Windows 7 can offer.

It's worth buying the Professional Edition

Does your agency use a mix of applications, some new & some old? Previous Microsoft operating systems weren't always so kind with supporting older (legacy) programs, but Windows 7 Professional Edition offers Windows XP Mode, giving you the flexibility to run many older Windows XP productivity applications directly from your Windows 7 desktop. This extends the life of your older software so you don't have to go out and buy new, compatible software versions before upgrading.

Thumbs up to Microsoft but you should note that this feature is not available on the Home Edition - only the Professional and Ultimate versions.

The Verdict

It's difficult to argue that Windows 7 is anything but good for real estate agents. The upgrade path to Windows 7, especially from Windows XP and older versions, can be a challenge and take a few hours but the overall benefits and time savings in the long run certainly pay off. Six months into it's life I give Windows 7 a big thumbs up.

Have more questions? Need help migrating to Windows 7?

The following PowerBuy partners are available to answer any questions you have relating to Windows 7. On request they will also provide a free technology assessment of your network.

Partner contact details are as follows:

Adelaide - VInet Solutions (1300 733 441)
Brisbane - BCA (1300 504 769)
Melbourne - Comcity (1300 266 248)
Perth - Leap Consulting (1300 532 748)
Sydney - Comcity (1300 266 248)
Nationalwide - Harris Technology (1300 139 999)

PowerBuy has also negotiated an exclusive cash-back on Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate Edition if you buy before May 31, no matter where you buy or how you buy (pre-installed on a PC or purchased separately). This offer is limited to the first 100 copies so click here to reserve your cash-back now.

Tell us what you think

Have you upgraded to Windows 7 yet? If so, what has been your experience, and if not, what's stopping you?