Default user interface (Red) not present, unable to change to it.

[swarfendor437]

When selecting File | Options | Appearance | User Interface (the default is Grey, the middle option) when trying to select the Red version (ribbon), it will not change, the Dark/Black one however does change.

[Tcaws]

Interesting. I think you are making the same point as me in an earlier thread https://forum.softmaker.com/viewtopic.p ... 777#p85777, albeit differently.

SoftMaker has responded, suggesting this is intentional and seen as an improvement:

We know that preferences vary—some users prefer this new look, others the older one, and some favor the menu interface only. While it's a matter of personal choice, this update is part of our ongoing effort to improve the experience for the majority of our users. We appreciate you sharing your perspective as it helps us shape future decisions.

It is an odd response: I know user preferences vary, and there may be some or many who like grey instead of coloured ribbon as the default, but this is taking away a choice that we once had, and taking away choice always impacts customer experience. They could have made a different interface the default and kept the choice available (like classic toolbars) without impacting on anyone's experience. Seemingly you hadn't noticed this default isn't the middle menu option, as it is so similar to it; and seemingly no-one has yet suggested they like this loss of choice.

[swarfendor437]

Hi Tcaws,

I didn't post in your thread in case I was mixing up the issue with Colours used for the Fonts on the Tabs in the Ribbon.
I wholeheartedly agree that this is removing choice from consumers. At first it took me some time to get used to the Red themed ribbon. I have been using SoftMaker Office Professional since 2018, upgraded to 2021, and currently on 2024.

[nvk]

I also preferred the old ribbon style - with the red/orange/green background. Now the app dazzles the user with the blank white page with no distinct colors. Now it's harder to distinguish programs from each other if multiple are opened.

[SuperTech]

Thank you for your feedback. I have forwarded it further.