I've been messing around with a few Windows XP 'enhancements' and this is what my desktop (work) looks like now (click for bigger images):
Here's the main desktop. I have a couple of Icons left over from windows like the recycle bin and some links to folders (like a gmail drive and some shares). The rest of the desktop is made up of Yahoo Widgets.
Macs already have this kinda stuff - but lets face it... who wants to use a Mac. Ditto Linux. I need XP for the software I run and it's as simple as that.
Speaking of Macs - Here's my new launch bar:
This is 'RocketDock' and AGAIN it's a Mac rip off - but like I said before... I really don't want to use a Mac. RocketDock has all the stuff I run regularly on it and it pops up when I drag my mouse to the left hand side of the desktop.
Finally...
...I use 'Folder Guide' to replace the shortcuts to folders I use regularly.
Setting up windows like this has really made a big difference on productivity. Everything is now in logical and easy to find places and is much quicker to use than standard windows.
I recommend you take a look at this stuff if you're interested. Best of all - it's all freeware.