by Matthew Adams

Created on: April 30, 2008   Last Updated: September 16, 2008

There are a number of ways you can customize your desktop with desktop enhancements. In addition, with a little imagination, you can really transform it. For this article, I am referring to Windows based desktops only.

Firstly, you can simply make use of Window's tools. Most obviously, the desktop wallpaper is something that can easily be changed and has a ready-made gallery to select from. However, you can easily look beyond this, by browsing the web for a far more comprehensive selection available to download. Alas any image of suitable size can be converted with a simple right-click of the mouse, and then select set as wallpaper. Alternatively, with photo trickery or paint-shop software, you can just create your own!

Themes are one of the best ways to customize your desktop, with wallpaper included. These are themes for your icons, tool-bars and task bar; the OS generally. For example, I found a Windows Vista theme to enhance XP. Who needs to upgrade? Again, browse the web for theme downloads. Once downloaded, you should be able to select the theme within appearance and themes.

A more serious way to change the design of your desktop is through Windows Blinds software. This is available as shareware and will require a fee after trial period. It's a great piece of kit that enables you change the desktop design as you see fit; for example, the window designs and task bar.

Widgets are a good way of adding new features to your desktop. They should not be overlooked as they can be downloaded from the Web as free accessories. They allow you to add desktop accessories like calendars, picture frames, clocks and memory gauge. There are hundreds to choose from. I for one have included Yahoo Widgets on my desktop.

Object Dock, another download, gives you the opportunity to do away with desktop shortcuts and even the task-bar! This is a new type of task-bar, which allows you to add shortcuts to the OS through it. You simply customize the dock, adding the icons (shortcuts) you want to appear on it to create your very own task-bar. Its appearance makes a refreshing change, and can be customized with special effects. It also shows the programs you are running in small windows, similar to multitasking. I believe this to be perhaps the best enhancement I have mentioned.

So don't forget desktop wallpaper, themes, Windows Blind, Widgets and Object Dock as the means by which you can enhance your desktop. Actually not just enhance, but transform it into something truly creative. Good luck!

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