So what are NextSTART and WorkShelf? Let's start by saying what they are not: they are not shell replacements and they are not unsupported system hacks. This means you will not be forced to abandon Explorer, modify Windows system files or be stranded with no shell if something goes wrong - nor will you be forced to learn complicated scripts just to install, configure or make it work. Winstep applications have an easy to use Graphical User Interface from which you can control all aspects of the environment. Since NextSTART and WorkShelf are shell enhancements rather than replacements, getting back to normal Windows is a simple matter of quitting the applications, so, if you are looking for a quick and easy way to give your PC a makeover, NextSTART and Workshelf it is.

NextSTART is a complete Start Menu, Taskbar and System Tray replacement. Why choose it over the standard features available in Windows? The answer begins with it's flexibility. If you've ever worked with other Operating Systems, you know that the "Windows way" of doing things isn't necessarily the best. Indeed, in many instances it has been watered down for the lowest common denominator with kludges and "features" that get 'in the way' rather than 'out of your way' when there's work to be done. NextSTART is the answer and the number of options you can configure to your needs are truly outstanding: among its many features are completely configurable menu structures - either via drag and drop or using the built-in Menu Editor - customizable menu behavior, an amazing number of ways to activate menus and run programs through our innovative use of of a feature called HotSpots, plus extended taskbar and systray management. You can use it to effortlessly navigate your hard disks and, if you are one of the lucky people who have them, it even takes full advantage of multi-monitor systems! The point is that absolutely everything in NextSTART is configurable: within it's small footprint NextSTART carries an incredible power. The possibilities are endless and suffice to say you must try it to truly experience the increased productivity and usability available to you.

In the world of Windows, WorkShelf is the Swiss Army knife of UI enhancements. Intended as a multi-leveled desktop replacement, it is equally at home functioning as a tabbed program launcher. Like a dock, but better. It enables you to organize your most often used applications and documents into categorized shelves while taking as little screen space as possible: when not in use, WorkShelf automatically collapses into a small strip of tabs. It also gives you access to frequently used system folders like the Windows Control Panel, My Computer, Network Neighborhood and more! Throw in support for built-in modules such as a speaking Atomic Clock, Recycle Bin, CPU Meter, Email Checker and Weather Monitor (with more forthcoming) and you have a software marvel you'll soon find you can't be without.

The true power of both applications, however, really comes to a league of its own when you use them together, since they were designed from the ground up to integrate seamlessly with each other: change a theme in NextSTART and WorkShelf automatically follows up (and vice-versa). WorkShelf also uses NextSTART context menus and can activate NextSTART hotspots. NextSTART in turn can capture WorkShelf desktop modules into its taskbar for an integrated look. Winstep applications bring Windows customization to another level!

You can learn more and download Winstep applications by visiting the Winstep web site at http://www.winstep.net .