Microsoft has made a number of major changes to the latest version of Windows—not the least of which are the touchscreen optimized Metro interface, and adding ARM-based tablets as an option. But, as the de facto productivity suite for businesses, Microsoft Office is the standard bearer of the Microsoft Windows operating system and Office 15 has the power to drive adoption of Windows 8 by taking advantage of the unique capabilities of the new OS.

I have not personally had a chance to play with the Office 15 beta yet, but I have had the opportunity to , a respected authority on Microsoft and technology in general. After reading Paul’s feedback on Office 15, it seems to me there are certain aspects that users and IT admins will appreciate.

1. Hidden Ribbon

Personally, I like the ribbon interface, and I’m glad that Microsoft is extending that same functionality across virtually every product it makes. But, many people don’t appreciate it like I do, and even though I’m a fan I’d still like to work on a less cluttered workspace sometimes.

Thurrott reports that Office 15 continues the legacy of the ribbon UI, but that it is hidden by default. He points out that the move probably has something to do with accommodating the simplicity of the Metro interface.