Will it ever be possible to shift the vertical scroll bar from the
right side of the browser window (and all windows for that matter) to
the left for those of us that are left handed? It just feels awkward
having to cross my line of sight to scroll when using a tablet PC and
stylus.

Thank you,
Matt

No, sorry, Matt. While it is something which has been considered by
Microsoft - and actually done to a fashion - for a long time, the cost to
third-party software companies to write the capabilities is prohibitive.
The problem is the operating system itself (first Win9x and the NT line) is
dedicated to the one way. Things are coming around, though, with individual
programs such as OneNote, where the folders can be moved to the left from
the right. Unfortunately, we probably won't see major changes in this area
until the Longhorn operating system.
--
Chris H.
Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
Associate Expert
Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone


"mjmattson" <mjmattson@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:4F405AC6-C2BD-4004-81C4-84609C6666DB@microsoft.com...
>
> Will it ever be possible to shift the vertical scroll bar from the
> right side of the browser window (and all windows for that matter) to
> the left for those of us that are left handed? It just feels awkward
> having to cross my line of sight to scroll when using a tablet PC and
> stylus.
>
> Thank you,
> Matt

This is a feature that I really feel *needs* to be incorporated into Windows for usability. Thank you for the information though. Please pass on a request for this functionality to the MS team.

Matt


"Chris H." wrote:

> No, sorry, Matt. While it is something which has been considered by
> Microsoft - and actually done to a fashion - for a long time, the cost to
> third-party software companies to write the capabilities is prohibitive.
> The problem is the operating system itself (first Win9x and the NT line) is
> dedicated to the one way. Things are coming around, though, with individual
> programs such as OneNote, where the folders can be moved to the left from
> the right. Unfortunately, we probably won't see major changes in this area
> until the Longhorn operating system.
> --
> Chris H.
> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
> Associate Expert
> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>
>
> "mjmattson" <mjmattson@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
> news:4F405AC6-C2BD-4004-81C4-84609C6666DB@microsoft.com...
> >
> > Will it ever be possible to shift the vertical scroll bar from the
> > right side of the browser window (and all windows for that matter) to
> > the left for those of us that are left handed? It just feels awkward
> > having to cross my line of sight to scroll when using a tablet PC and
> > stylus.
> >
> > Thank you,
> > Matt
>
>
>

Believe me, MS knows and is working on it. Making it backwards compatible
is prohibitive. Look for more of that type of functionality in future
Microsoft operating systems.

--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft Windows MVP / Tablet PC
http://thetabletpc.net
Expert Zone - http://microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/default.asp


"mjmattson" <mjmattson@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:B2781F87-B0EA-44C5-BE35-1F9809791228@microsoft.com...
> This is a feature that I really feel *needs* to be incorporated into
> Windows for usability. Thank you for the information though. Please pass
> on a request for this functionality to the MS team.
>
> Matt
>
>
> "Chris H." wrote:
>
>> No, sorry, Matt. While it is something which has been considered by
>> Microsoft - and actually done to a fashion - for a long time, the cost to
>> third-party software companies to write the capabilities is prohibitive.
>> The problem is the operating system itself (first Win9x and the NT line)
>> is
>> dedicated to the one way. Things are coming around, though, with
>> individual
>> programs such as OneNote, where the folders can be moved to the left from
>> the right. Unfortunately, we probably won't see major changes in this
>> area
>> until the Longhorn operating system.
>> --
>> Chris H.
>> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
>> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
>> Associate Expert
>> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>>
>>
>> "mjmattson" <mjmattson@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
>> news:4F405AC6-C2BD-4004-81C4-84609C6666DB@microsoft.com...
>> >
>> > Will it ever be possible to shift the vertical scroll bar from the
>> > right side of the browser window (and all windows for that matter) to
>> > the left for those of us that are left handed? It just feels awkward
>> > having to cross my line of sight to scroll when using a tablet PC and
>> > stylus.
>> >
>> > Thank you,
>> > Matt
>>
>>
>>

In Internet Explorer, click the View Menu -> Encoding -> Right to Left
Document.

It messes up the way some things look unfortunately, and it has to be set
for each page. Web designers can apply this to individual DIV's too which
Spencer Goad has done on his web site (www.tabletpcbuzz.com) so if you wanna
check that out, go into the profile after you've become a member and change
your handedness to left handed.

So the ability is technically there. It's just a matter of changing the base
controls. I can't forsee any major impact this would have on existing
applications so if it's a very necessary feature, MS should be able to
easily implement it.

--
Josh Einstein
Einstein Technologies
--------------------------------------------------------
Add ink input to Outlook with Tablet Enhancements for Outlook! Only $19.99!
http://www.einsteinware.com

"mjmattson" <mjmattson@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:4F405AC6-C2BD-4004-81C4-84609C6666DB@microsoft.com...
>
> Will it ever be possible to shift the vertical scroll bar from the
> right side of the browser window (and all windows for that matter) to
> the left for those of us that are left handed? It just feels awkward
> having to cross my line of sight to scroll when using a tablet PC and
> stylus.
>
> Thank you,
> Matt

It's not easily implemented, as Microsoft has stated many times. It will
work in applications or sites that are built from the ground up, but it
would be almost impossible to make it backwards compatible with all the
programs that are already out there.

--
Terri Stratton
Microsoft Windows MVP / Tablet PC
http://thetabletpc.net
Expert Zone - http://microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/default.asp


"Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
news:%23IZK4$LVEHA.1652@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl...
> In Internet Explorer, click the View Menu -> Encoding -> Right to Left
> Document.
>
> It messes up the way some things look unfortunately, and it has to be set
> for each page. Web designers can apply this to individual DIV's too which
> Spencer Goad has done on his web site (www.tabletpcbuzz.com) so if you
> wanna check that out, go into the profile after you've become a member and
> change your handedness to left handed.
>
> So the ability is technically there. It's just a matter of changing the
> base controls. I can't forsee any major impact this would have on existing
> applications so if it's a very necessary feature, MS should be able to
> easily implement it.
>
> --
> Josh Einstein
> Einstein Technologies
> --------------------------------------------------------
> Add ink input to Outlook with Tablet Enhancements for Outlook! Only
> $19.99!
> http://www.einsteinware.com
>
> "mjmattson" <mjmattson@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
> news:4F405AC6-C2BD-4004-81C4-84609C6666DB@microsoft.com...
>>
>> Will it ever be possible to shift the vertical scroll bar from the
>> right side of the browser window (and all windows for that matter) to
>> the left for those of us that are left handed? It just feels awkward
>> having to cross my line of sight to scroll when using a tablet PC and
>> stylus.
>>
>> Thank you,
>> Matt
>
>

Josh, as Terri has said, and I tried to impart in my response, Microsoft has
dealt with this issue for years. Bill Gates is left-handed. An example is
Microsoft can set this up for $50,000 investment for research, development
and adjustments on its current programs and operating systems.

The other software companies around the world would need to spend millions
or billions of dollars to revamp/rewrite their software to comply.

Guess what the prudent approach is Microsoft has chosen to take until the
Longhorn timeframe?
--
Chris H.
Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
Associate Expert
Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone


"Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
news:%23IZK4$LVEHA.1652@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl...
> In Internet Explorer, click the View Menu -> Encoding -> Right to Left
> Document.
>
> It messes up the way some things look unfortunately, and it has to be set
> for each page. Web designers can apply this to individual DIV's too which
> Spencer Goad has done on his web site (www.tabletpcbuzz.com) so if you
> wanna check that out, go into the profile after you've become a member and
> change your handedness to left handed.
>
> So the ability is technically there. It's just a matter of changing the
> base controls. I can't forsee any major impact this would have on existing
> applications so if it's a very necessary feature, MS should be able to
> easily implement it.
>
> --
> Josh Einstein
> Einstein Technologies

That's not true. Things like multiline text boxes and html pages have
scrollbars by default. Developers don't do anything special to create them.

If the operating system simply rendered them on the left, the developer
wouldn't have to do anything differently. If you can give me an example of
something that would break, I will admit I'm wrong.

Take a look at the IE menu I described. If they can draw a scrollbar on the
left when I click a menu, then why not always?

--
Josh Einstein
Einstein Technologies
--------------------------------------------------------
Add ink input to Outlook with Tablet Enhancements for Outlook! Only $19.99!
http://www.einsteinware.com

"Chris H." <winxpnews********.com> wrote in message
news:u97nRpMVEHA.3016@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
> Josh, as Terri has said, and I tried to impart in my response, Microsoft
> has dealt with this issue for years. Bill Gates is left-handed. An
> example is Microsoft can set this up for $50,000 investment for research,
> development and adjustments on its current programs and operating systems.
>
> The other software companies around the world would need to spend millions
> or billions of dollars to revamp/rewrite their software to comply.
>
> Guess what the prudent approach is Microsoft has chosen to take until the
> Longhorn timeframe?
> --
> Chris H.
> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
> Associate Expert
> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>
>
> "Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
> news:%23IZK4$LVEHA.1652@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl...
>> In Internet Explorer, click the View Menu -> Encoding -> Right to Left
>> Document.
>>
>> It messes up the way some things look unfortunately, and it has to be set
>> for each page. Web designers can apply this to individual DIV's too which
>> Spencer Goad has done on his web site (www.tabletpcbuzz.com) so if you
>> wanna check that out, go into the profile after you've become a member
>> and change your handedness to left handed.
>>
>> So the ability is technically there. It's just a matter of changing the
>> base controls. I can't forsee any major impact this would have on
>> existing applications so if it's a very necessary feature, MS should be
>> able to easily implement it.
>>
>> --
>> Josh Einstein
>> Einstein Technologies
>
>

I figured with Bill Gates being left-handed this would have been something looked at. I can wait until LongHorn...just wondered if it had been looked at.

I appreciate all the information provided.





"Chris H." wrote:

> Josh, as Terri has said, and I tried to impart in my response, Microsoft has
> dealt with this issue for years. Bill Gates is left-handed. An example is
> Microsoft can set this up for $50,000 investment for research, development
> and adjustments on its current programs and operating systems.
>
> The other software companies around the world would need to spend millions
> or billions of dollars to revamp/rewrite their software to comply.
>
> Guess what the prudent approach is Microsoft has chosen to take until the
> Longhorn timeframe?
> --
> Chris H.
> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
> Associate Expert
> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>
>
> "Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
> news:%23IZK4$LVEHA.1652@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl...
> > In Internet Explorer, click the View Menu -> Encoding -> Right to Left
> > Document.
> >
> > It messes up the way some things look unfortunately, and it has to be set
> > for each page. Web designers can apply this to individual DIV's too which
> > Spencer Goad has done on his web site (www.tabletpcbuzz.com) so if you
> > wanna check that out, go into the profile after you've become a member and
> > change your handedness to left handed.
> >
> > So the ability is technically there. It's just a matter of changing the
> > base controls. I can't forsee any major impact this would have on existing
> > applications so if it's a very necessary feature, MS should be able to
> > easily implement it.
> >
> > --
> > Josh Einstein
> > Einstein Technologies
>
>
>

"mjmattson" <mjmattson@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:003BEE93-F199-497C-AA2E-D6A3A935F068@microsoft.com...
>I figured with Bill Gates being left-handed this would have been something
>looked at. I can wait until LongHorn...just wondered if it had been looked
>at.
>
> I appreciate all the information provided.

A larger-than-average proportion of the Tablet architects is left-handed and
this discussion has been had since the very earliest days. There also some
problems with legacy code in some of the standard Windows libraries that
don't produce very good menu flyout behaviour when switched to left-hand
user behaviour.

Windows does support switching scroll-bars over for Arabic and Hebrew
systems, but many third-party Win32 applications that are untested in these
scenarios will crash.

Josh, I won't debate with you what Microsoft developers have said. Certain
programs can do certain things, like I pointed out with OneNote currently
(SP1 form), but the entire operating system is another issue.
--
Chris H.
Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
Associate Expert
Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone


"Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
news:e3XeWFNVEHA.264@TK2MSFTNGP10.phx.gbl...
> That's not true. Things like multiline text boxes and html pages have
> scrollbars by default. Developers don't do anything special to create
> them.
>
> If the operating system simply rendered them on the left, the developer
> wouldn't have to do anything differently. If you can give me an example of
> something that would break, I will admit I'm wrong.
>
> Take a look at the IE menu I described. If they can draw a scrollbar on
> the left when I click a menu, then why not always?
>
> --
> Josh Einstein
> Einstein Technologies
> --------------------------------------------------------
> Add ink input to Outlook with Tablet Enhancements for Outlook! Only
> $19.99!
> http://www.einsteinware.com
>
> "Chris H." <winxpnews********.com> wrote in message
> news:u97nRpMVEHA.3016@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
>> Josh, as Terri has said, and I tried to impart in my response, Microsoft
>> has dealt with this issue for years. Bill Gates is left-handed. An
>> example is Microsoft can set this up for $50,000 investment for research,
>> development and adjustments on its current programs and operating
>> systems.
>>
>> The other software companies around the world would need to spend
>> millions or billions of dollars to revamp/rewrite their software to
>> comply.
>>
>> Guess what the prudent approach is Microsoft has chosen to take until the
>> Longhorn timeframe?
>> --
>> Chris H.
>> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
>> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
>> Associate Expert
>> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>>
>>
>> "Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
>> news:%23IZK4$LVEHA.1652@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl...
>>> In Internet Explorer, click the View Menu -> Encoding -> Right to Left
>>> Document.
>>>
>>> It messes up the way some things look unfortunately, and it has to be
>>> set for each page. Web designers can apply this to individual DIV's too
>>> which Spencer Goad has done on his web site (www.tabletpcbuzz.com) so if
>>> you wanna check that out, go into the profile after you've become a
>>> member and change your handedness to left handed.
>>>
>>> So the ability is technically there. It's just a matter of changing the
>>> base controls. I can't forsee any major impact this would have on
>>> existing applications so if it's a very necessary feature, MS should be
>>> able to easily implement it.
>>>
>>> --
>>> Josh Einstein
>>> Einstein Technologies
>>
>>
>
>

Okay that's respectable. But then I won't admit I am wrong. :) I will try to
get a technical explanation of this issue from the MS guys then, because as
a windows developer, I see no reason why this is not possible. Scrollbars
are nonclient areas which means the OS is responsible for creating them.
Just as apps aren't affected by XP skinning them, so should they not be
affected by orientation change.

--
Josh Einstein
Einstein Technologies
--------------------------------------------------------
Add ink input to Outlook with Tablet Enhancements for Outlook! Only $19.99!
http://www.einsteinware.com

"Chris H." <winxpnews********.com> wrote in message
news:eW5ApQNVEHA.3664@TK2MSFTNGP12.phx.gbl...
> Josh, I won't debate with you what Microsoft developers have said.
> Certain programs can do certain things, like I pointed out with OneNote
> currently (SP1 form), but the entire operating system is another issue.
> --
> Chris H.
> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
> Associate Expert
> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>
>
> "Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
> news:e3XeWFNVEHA.264@TK2MSFTNGP10.phx.gbl...
>> That's not true. Things like multiline text boxes and html pages have
>> scrollbars by default. Developers don't do anything special to create
>> them.
>>
>> If the operating system simply rendered them on the left, the developer
>> wouldn't have to do anything differently. If you can give me an example
>> of something that would break, I will admit I'm wrong.
>>
>> Take a look at the IE menu I described. If they can draw a scrollbar on
>> the left when I click a menu, then why not always?
>>
>> --
>> Josh Einstein
>> Einstein Technologies
>> --------------------------------------------------------
>> Add ink input to Outlook with Tablet Enhancements for Outlook! Only
>> $19.99!
>> http://www.einsteinware.com
>>
>> "Chris H." <winxpnews********.com> wrote in message
>> news:u97nRpMVEHA.3016@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
>>> Josh, as Terri has said, and I tried to impart in my response, Microsoft
>>> has dealt with this issue for years. Bill Gates is left-handed. An
>>> example is Microsoft can set this up for $50,000 investment for
>>> research, development and adjustments on its current programs and
>>> operating systems.
>>>
>>> The other software companies around the world would need to spend
>>> millions or billions of dollars to revamp/rewrite their software to
>>> comply.
>>>
>>> Guess what the prudent approach is Microsoft has chosen to take until
>>> the Longhorn timeframe?
>>> --
>>> Chris H.
>>> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
>>> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
>>> Associate Expert
>>> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>>>
>>>
>>> "Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
>>> news:%23IZK4$LVEHA.1652@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl...
>>>> In Internet Explorer, click the View Menu -> Encoding -> Right to Left
>>>> Document.
>>>>
>>>> It messes up the way some things look unfortunately, and it has to be
>>>> set for each page. Web designers can apply this to individual DIV's too
>>>> which Spencer Goad has done on his web site (www.tabletpcbuzz.com) so
>>>> if you wanna check that out, go into the profile after you've become a
>>>> member and change your handedness to left handed.
>>>>
>>>> So the ability is technically there. It's just a matter of changing the
>>>> base controls. I can't forsee any major impact this would have on
>>>> existing applications so if it's a very necessary feature, MS should be
>>>> able to easily implement it.
>>>>
>>>> --
>>>> Josh Einstein
>>>> Einstein Technologies
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>
>

Read Mike Williams post, Josh. Believe me, we've gone over this many years
ago, and until we have an operating system built from the ground up - one
that doesn't depend on legacy items - we're stuck with what we've got. I've
got a lefty daughter, and she copes just fine. It could be easier for her,
but with the discussions I've been part of over the years it isn't
economically feasible with the current OS.
--
Chris H.
Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
Associate Expert
Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone


"Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
news:utvIxYNVEHA.3380@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl...
> Okay that's respectable. But then I won't admit I am wrong. :) I will try
> to get a technical explanation of this issue from the MS guys then,
> because as a windows developer, I see no reason why this is not possible.
> Scrollbars are nonclient areas which means the OS is responsible for
> creating them. Just as apps aren't affected by XP skinning them, so should
> they not be affected by orientation change.
>
> --
> Josh Einstein
> Einstein Technologies
> --------------------------------------------------------
> Add ink input to Outlook with Tablet Enhancements for Outlook! Only
> $19.99!
> http://www.einsteinware.com
>
> "Chris H." <winxpnews********.com> wrote in message
> news:eW5ApQNVEHA.3664@TK2MSFTNGP12.phx.gbl...
>> Josh, I won't debate with you what Microsoft developers have said.
>> Certain programs can do certain things, like I pointed out with OneNote
>> currently (SP1 form), but the entire operating system is another issue.
>> --
>> Chris H.
>> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
>> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
>> Associate Expert
>> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>>
>>
>> "Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
>> news:e3XeWFNVEHA.264@TK2MSFTNGP10.phx.gbl...
>>> That's not true. Things like multiline text boxes and html pages have
>>> scrollbars by default. Developers don't do anything special to create
>>> them.
>>>
>>> If the operating system simply rendered them on the left, the developer
>>> wouldn't have to do anything differently. If you can give me an example
>>> of something that would break, I will admit I'm wrong.
>>>
>>> Take a look at the IE menu I described. If they can draw a scrollbar on
>>> the left when I click a menu, then why not always?
>>>
>>> --
>>> Josh Einstein
>>> Einstein Technologies
>>> --------------------------------------------------------
>>> Add ink input to Outlook with Tablet Enhancements for Outlook! Only
>>> $19.99!
>>> http://www.einsteinware.com
>>>
>>> "Chris H." <winxpnews********.com> wrote in message
>>> news:u97nRpMVEHA.3016@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
>>>> Josh, as Terri has said, and I tried to impart in my response,
>>>> Microsoft has dealt with this issue for years. Bill Gates is
>>>> left-handed. An example is Microsoft can set this up for $50,000
>>>> investment for research, development and adjustments on its current
>>>> programs and operating systems.
>>>>
>>>> The other software companies around the world would need to spend
>>>> millions or billions of dollars to revamp/rewrite their software to
>>>> comply.
>>>>
>>>> Guess what the prudent approach is Microsoft has chosen to take until
>>>> the Longhorn timeframe?
>>>> --
>>>> Chris H.
>>>> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
>>>> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
>>>> Associate Expert
>>>> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> "Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
>>>> news:%23IZK4$LVEHA.1652@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl...
>>>>> In Internet Explorer, click the View Menu -> Encoding -> Right to Left
>>>>> Document.
>>>>>
>>>>> It messes up the way some things look unfortunately, and it has to be
>>>>> set for each page. Web designers can apply this to individual DIV's
>>>>> too which Spencer Goad has done on his web site (www.tabletpcbuzz.com)
>>>>> so if you wanna check that out, go into the profile after you've
>>>>> become a member and change your handedness to left handed.
>>>>>
>>>>> So the ability is technically there. It's just a matter of changing
>>>>> the base controls. I can't forsee any major impact this would have on
>>>>> existing applications so if it's a very necessary feature, MS should
>>>>> be able to easily implement it.
>>>>>
>>>>> --
>>>>> Josh Einstein
>>>>> Einstein Technologies
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>
>

I hear what you're saying but you've not said why existing apps would break.

I think I need to talk to a developer about it to understand what the big
problem is.

--
Josh Einstein
Einstein Technologies
--------------------------------------------------------
Add ink input to Outlook with Tablet Enhancements for Outlook! Only $19.99!
http://www.einsteinware.com

"Chris H." <winxpnews********.com> wrote in message
news:eOz1SqNVEHA.716@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl...
> Read Mike Williams post, Josh. Believe me, we've gone over this many
> years ago, and until we have an operating system built from the ground
> up - one that doesn't depend on legacy items - we're stuck with what we've
> got. I've got a lefty daughter, and she copes just fine. It could be
> easier for her, but with the discussions I've been part of over the years
> it isn't economically feasible with the current OS.
> --
> Chris H.
> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
> Associate Expert
> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>
>
> "Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
> news:utvIxYNVEHA.3380@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl...
>> Okay that's respectable. But then I won't admit I am wrong. :) I will try
>> to get a technical explanation of this issue from the MS guys then,
>> because as a windows developer, I see no reason why this is not possible.
>> Scrollbars are nonclient areas which means the OS is responsible for
>> creating them. Just as apps aren't affected by XP skinning them, so
>> should they not be affected by orientation change.
>>
>> --
>> Josh Einstein
>> Einstein Technologies
>> --------------------------------------------------------
>> Add ink input to Outlook with Tablet Enhancements for Outlook! Only
>> $19.99!
>> http://www.einsteinware.com
>>
>> "Chris H." <winxpnews********.com> wrote in message
>> news:eW5ApQNVEHA.3664@TK2MSFTNGP12.phx.gbl...
>>> Josh, I won't debate with you what Microsoft developers have said.
>>> Certain programs can do certain things, like I pointed out with OneNote
>>> currently (SP1 form), but the entire operating system is another issue.
>>> --
>>> Chris H.
>>> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
>>> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
>>> Associate Expert
>>> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>>>
>>>
>>> "Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
>>> news:e3XeWFNVEHA.264@TK2MSFTNGP10.phx.gbl...
>>>> That's not true. Things like multiline text boxes and html pages have
>>>> scrollbars by default. Developers don't do anything special to create
>>>> them.
>>>>
>>>> If the operating system simply rendered them on the left, the developer
>>>> wouldn't have to do anything differently. If you can give me an example
>>>> of something that would break, I will admit I'm wrong.
>>>>
>>>> Take a look at the IE menu I described. If they can draw a scrollbar on
>>>> the left when I click a menu, then why not always?
>>>>
>>>> --
>>>> Josh Einstein
>>>> Einstein Technologies
>>>> --------------------------------------------------------
>>>> Add ink input to Outlook with Tablet Enhancements for Outlook! Only
>>>> $19.99!
>>>> http://www.einsteinware.com
>>>>
>>>> "Chris H." <winxpnews********.com> wrote in message
>>>> news:u97nRpMVEHA.3016@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
>>>>> Josh, as Terri has said, and I tried to impart in my response,
>>>>> Microsoft has dealt with this issue for years. Bill Gates is
>>>>> left-handed. An example is Microsoft can set this up for $50,000
>>>>> investment for research, development and adjustments on its current
>>>>> programs and operating systems.
>>>>>
>>>>> The other software companies around the world would need to spend
>>>>> millions or billions of dollars to revamp/rewrite their software to
>>>>> comply.
>>>>>
>>>>> Guess what the prudent approach is Microsoft has chosen to take until
>>>>> the Longhorn timeframe?
>>>>> --
>>>>> Chris H.
>>>>> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
>>>>> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
>>>>> Associate Expert
>>>>> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> "Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
>>>>> news:%23IZK4$LVEHA.1652@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl...
>>>>>> In Internet Explorer, click the View Menu -> Encoding -> Right to
>>>>>> Left Document.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> It messes up the way some things look unfortunately, and it has to be
>>>>>> set for each page. Web designers can apply this to individual DIV's
>>>>>> too which Spencer Goad has done on his web site
>>>>>> (www.tabletpcbuzz.com) so if you wanna check that out, go into the
>>>>>> profile after you've become a member and change your handedness to
>>>>>> left handed.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> So the ability is technically there. It's just a matter of changing
>>>>>> the base controls. I can't forsee any major impact this would have on
>>>>>> existing applications so if it's a very necessary feature, MS should
>>>>>> be able to easily implement it.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> --
>>>>>> Josh Einstein
>>>>>> Einstein Technologies
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>
>

I hear what you're saying but you've not said why existing apps would break.

I think I need to talk to a developer about it to understand what the big
problem is.

--
Josh Einstein
Einstein Technologies
--------------------------------------------------------
Add ink input to Outlook with Tablet Enhancements for Outlook! Only $19.99!
http://www.einsteinware.com

"Chris H." <winxpnews********.com> wrote in message
news:eOz1SqNVEHA.716@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl...
> Read Mike Williams post, Josh. Believe me, we've gone over this many
> years ago, and until we have an operating system built from the ground
> up - one that doesn't depend on legacy items - we're stuck with what we've
> got. I've got a lefty daughter, and she copes just fine. It could be
> easier for her, but with the discussions I've been part of over the years
> it isn't economically feasible with the current OS.
> --
> Chris H.
> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
> Associate Expert
> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>
>
> "Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
> news:utvIxYNVEHA.3380@TK2MSFTNGP11.phx.gbl...
>> Okay that's respectable. But then I won't admit I am wrong. :) I will try
>> to get a technical explanation of this issue from the MS guys then,
>> because as a windows developer, I see no reason why this is not possible.
>> Scrollbars are nonclient areas which means the OS is responsible for
>> creating them. Just as apps aren't affected by XP skinning them, so
>> should they not be affected by orientation change.
>>
>> --
>> Josh Einstein
>> Einstein Technologies
>> --------------------------------------------------------
>> Add ink input to Outlook with Tablet Enhancements for Outlook! Only
>> $19.99!
>> http://www.einsteinware.com
>>
>> "Chris H." <winxpnews********.com> wrote in message
>> news:eW5ApQNVEHA.3664@TK2MSFTNGP12.phx.gbl...
>>> Josh, I won't debate with you what Microsoft developers have said.
>>> Certain programs can do certain things, like I pointed out with OneNote
>>> currently (SP1 form), but the entire operating system is another issue.
>>> --
>>> Chris H.
>>> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
>>> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
>>> Associate Expert
>>> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>>>
>>>
>>> "Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
>>> news:e3XeWFNVEHA.264@TK2MSFTNGP10.phx.gbl...
>>>> That's not true. Things like multiline text boxes and html pages have
>>>> scrollbars by default. Developers don't do anything special to create
>>>> them.
>>>>
>>>> If the operating system simply rendered them on the left, the developer
>>>> wouldn't have to do anything differently. If you can give me an example
>>>> of something that would break, I will admit I'm wrong.
>>>>
>>>> Take a look at the IE menu I described. If they can draw a scrollbar on
>>>> the left when I click a menu, then why not always?
>>>>
>>>> --
>>>> Josh Einstein
>>>> Einstein Technologies
>>>> --------------------------------------------------------
>>>> Add ink input to Outlook with Tablet Enhancements for Outlook! Only
>>>> $19.99!
>>>> http://www.einsteinware.com
>>>>
>>>> "Chris H." <winxpnews********.com> wrote in message
>>>> news:u97nRpMVEHA.3016@tk2msftngp13.phx.gbl...
>>>>> Josh, as Terri has said, and I tried to impart in my response,
>>>>> Microsoft has dealt with this issue for years. Bill Gates is
>>>>> left-handed. An example is Microsoft can set this up for $50,000
>>>>> investment for research, development and adjustments on its current
>>>>> programs and operating systems.
>>>>>
>>>>> The other software companies around the world would need to spend
>>>>> millions or billions of dollars to revamp/rewrite their software to
>>>>> comply.
>>>>>
>>>>> Guess what the prudent approach is Microsoft has chosen to take until
>>>>> the Longhorn timeframe?
>>>>> --
>>>>> Chris H.
>>>>> Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
>>>>> Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
>>>>> Associate Expert
>>>>> Expert Zone - www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> "Josh Einstein" <josheinstein********.com> wrote in message
>>>>> news:%23IZK4$LVEHA.1652@TK2MSFTNGP09.phx.gbl...
>>>>>> In Internet Explorer, click the View Menu -> Encoding -> Right to
>>>>>> Left Document.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> It messes up the way some things look unfortunately, and it has to be
>>>>>> set for each page. Web designers can apply this to individual DIV's
>>>>>> too which Spencer Goad has done on his web site
>>>>>> (www.tabletpcbuzz.com) so if you wanna check that out, go into the
>>>>>> profile after you've become a member and change your handedness to
>>>>>> left handed.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> So the ability is technically there. It's just a matter of changing
>>>>>> the base controls. I can't forsee any major impact this would have on
>>>>>> existing applications so if it's a very necessary feature, MS should
>>>>>> be able to easily implement it.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> --
>>>>>> Josh Einstein
>>>>>> Einstein Technologies
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>
>