If you’ve been navigating the Windows landscape for a while, you may recall that Microsoft previously labeled its major updates as “Spring” and “Fall.” However, in 2018, the company made a notable shift, adopting the more straightforward designations of “H1” and “H2.” While it might seem intuitive to associate these names with the first and second halves of the year, the underlying rationale is far more thoughtful.
This small naming tweak made Windows updates more inclusive
In a recent entry on the Microsoft Dev blog, Raymond Chen shared the heartwarming story behind this naming evolution. The discussion originated during an all-hands meeting, where a senior executive posed a thought-provoking question about potential unconscious biases within the company. This inquiry prompted an employee from the Southern Hemisphere to raise his hand and voice a concern that would ultimately lead to a significant change.
The employee pointed out that the terms “Spring” and “Fall” inherently favored users in the Northern Hemisphere, potentially alienating those in regions where the seasons are reversed. This observation resonated with the team, highlighting an oversight in the company’s approach to global inclusivity.
As a result, Microsoft swiftly rebranded its semiannual updates to H1 and H2, effectively neutralizing the seasonal bias. The H1 update occurs in the first half of the year, while H2 follows in the latter half. This adjustment not only reflects a more inclusive mindset but also prompts a broader reflection on how assumptions about user experiences can shape product naming conventions.
In retrospect, it seems almost self-evident that a tech giant like Microsoft should consider the diverse experiences of its global user base. Yet, it took the courage of one employee to bring this important issue to light, leading to a change that enhances the user experience for all. Such thoughtful adjustments remind us that even the smallest details can have a profound impact on inclusivity and understanding in the tech world.
