DratBar

Granted, pressing the Windows key and searching for a program that you need to use is one way to get apps running. However, the approach is rather limited and, if you have a rather cluttered Start Menu that you need to scroll down to search for a program, it is definitely time-consuming.

If you would like to increase your productivity and get things done faster, then you have to look beyond the built-in search system and consider using a launcher. DratBar is an application designed the help you access your program quickly, while keeping your desktop clean and organized.

After a straightforward installation, you can view the application in the center position in the upper section of your desktop. The program comes with a simple interface that blends well with your desktop and is not distracting.

You can add programs' shortcuts in the launcher by simply dragging and dropping them in the dedicated field in the launcher. Moreover, you can hide the utility when you are not using it and enable it again with just one click. Unfortunately, you cannot assign a hotkey for this purpose, an option that would be have been more convenient for a launcher app.

You will be happy to learn that you can add as many shortcuts as you need and move them around according to the frequency of usage. Settings-wise, the application is rather limited and only allows you to specify a few parameters, namely the scroll mode and speed, whether you want to enable the sound effects and if you prefer the autorun enabled or disabled.

It would have been useful if the utility enabled you to move it around your desktop and arrange it to a location that it is more suitable for your work style. Although the GUI is minimalistic, it would have been nice if the tool allowed you to set a transparency level, as to make it less distracting when you are watching a movie or surfing the Internet, for instance.

If you are searching for a solution that enables you to keep your desktop clear of shortcuts, so that you can find files you are working with faster and be more productive, then perhaps DratBar could come in handy.