The ribbon is quite simply very cool. Finding things is in fact easier - once you get acquainted with the layout. As far as screen space is concerned, if it takes up to much room for your liking all you have to you is minimize it. I think the problem is that some people just don't like change, and even less so if Microsoft makes the change! Of course some applications are not suited to the ribbon UI, and I would agree that Explorer is one of them, but then as with all things we will get used to it. I for one never use any thing but the context menus in explorer, so if it annoys me enough it will simply be in permanent minimized mode. If the Office ribbon really gets to you then there are other alternatives. If you have to use it at work then it's your job to learn how it works and where things are now located. So my vote is: The ribbon is cool - I like it! :)