Office 2007 gets back its old interface

A new utility allows Microsoft Office 2007 users to use the familiar old menu interface.

The latest version of the world's most-used office suite replaces the classic interface with ribbon bars that are supposed to help less-experienced users take advantage of advanced features.

But many people have found it difficult to get used to and prefer the old look, according to Chinese developer Addintools.

It claims its Classic Menu for Office 2007 v2.08 product allows people "to work in their usual manner without changing their habits."

The program is said to work with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint and provide access to new Office 2007 features, as well as old ones, via the classic menus and toolbars.

Microsoft did not offer a "classic look" option with Office 2007, saying it would be too difficult to incorporate into the completely revamped product.

The new utility, if it works well, may interest companies with a mix of old and new machines who want to give staff a consistent interface, ar who fear the new version may entail retraining costs.

Classic Menu for Office 2007 v.2.08 runs under XP or Vista and costs $29.95 for a single-user license, which includes free updates and technical support for two years after the date of purchase. A free evaluation copy is available here.

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