Software that runs on one or more versions of Windows, should conform to the same standards.  If the Windows operating system uses the word Edit for a menu of editing options, why do certain programmers replace the name of the same or similar menu with FIX, or Change, or even ReVise?   Naturally there are no hard-and-fast rules, but there are established guidelines and principles.  Therefore, if something is widely accepted, go with it.

Keep Those Standards

People already have enough information to learn and remember about computers and programs, so why confuse them?  At Sherwood we make our software as intuitive and familiar as possible.  On occasion, we have been told our software looks like any Microsoft product as some kind of insult.  We say Thank you! Because, to us, that means the product will be easy-to-use and require only minimal training.

Use Plain English

On the other hand, just because Microsoft does it, we don't just blindly follow suit.  Their software isn't always a great model, especially their error messages.  Our messages try to explain the problem in non-programmer terms by using everyday English.  If a message is not understood, it is useless.

Good Taste is Always in Style

In this day and age, where colors and patterns are used indiscriminately, without much thought as to whether or not they go together, where everything moves and vibrates, distraction is commonplace.  We try not to divert or disturb the user, so their concentration is improved and use of the application results in increased productivity, rather than increased frustration.

We are all Human