Many people I know ask me how they can either clean up or customize their laptops or desktops. Recently while visiting one of my favorite sites and also one of my favorite channels TechTV; while browsing through the website I came across a link to called WindowsCustomize this website is full of applications and desktop customizations.

Most of the software I found and wanted to try was from StarDock. This company provides a desktop application you may have either heard about or may have already used called WindowBlinds; however, since then the company has developed some new desktop applications that can be used separately or together. These applications not only give your computer a new interface but also clean your desktop area by removing clutter.

The tools listed below are the ones I will be focusing on in upcoming reviews. These tools can be downloaded or purchased separately. These applications are also available in the Object Desktop bundle that can be purchased for $49.95. This includes all applications listed below and more. Object Dock is available as Freeware.

Object Dock - Alternative to the basic Windows launchbar/taskbar, which enables you to clean up a cluttered desktop environment. FREE

DesktopX - Extends the Windows shell new object oriented abilities that can make the desktop securer for users or allows users to create a whole new Windows desktop environment. In addition IconX comes within DesktopX, IconX allows you to add effects that will enhance and animate the desktop icons. $19.95

Object Bar - ObjectBar is a program for Windows 98, ME, 2000, and XP that allows users to create their own custom Start bars, finders, pop-up menus, program launchers, wharfs, docks, etc. It is completely customizable. $19.95

WindowBinds - WindowBlinds 4 is the first utility of its kind. It extends Windows XP to have a fully skinnable user including the taskbar and explorer shellstyles. You can change the style of title bars, buttons, toolbars and much more. $19.95

WindowFX – Allows you to add special effects to Windows. $19.95

Winstyles - WinStyles uses the Object Desktop components to change your entire desktop at once by applying a suite of skins, icons and themes. $10.00

The first product I would like to start in this review is Object Dock; “Why start with Object Dock first?” you ask, well because it’s FREE and free stuff should always be first.

Object Dock is not only a good alternative to the basic Windows launchbar/taskbar, but also enables you to clean up a cluttered desktop environment. Once you have installed object dock you will be very impressed with its interface alone. Not only does Object Dock have a sleek look, but also allows you to perform simple customizations such as re-sizing and positioning the bar, and magnification feature, which magnifies the icons when you move the mouse over the icons. The magnification feature is not only a pretty cool effect but also has a useful purpose for those who may be visually impaired.

In addition, if you like shortcuts and icons on your desktop but you notice your screen is becoming crowded or your computer is starting to run sluggish, Object Dock can also help. Object Dock allows users to place your own shortcuts and icons on the bar.

Object Dock is also customizable; you may change the theme, backgrounds, and icons. You can even add special tools called Docklets. Docklets are small applications that can be added to Object Dock easily; these add-ons include Start Menu buttons, Weather information, Clocks, System information, and System processes.

Object Dock is a nice alternative to the Windows launch-pad/taskbar with some inventive features. While using the program I only found one major flaw; I noticed that not all the running programs appeared on the bar, but hopefully StarDock will address this issue soon.

I hope you try Object Dock and enjoy it as much as I do!