[Larry]

In Word 97-2003, to open the AutoCorrect dialog box, you (1) click open the
Tools menu and (2) click AutoCorrect. Two simple steps.

To do the same in Word 2007, you (1) open the Office button, then (2) click
on Word Options, then (3) use the down arrow to get down to Proofing, then
(4) click on a button that says AutoCorrect options. That's four or more
steps, compared to two simple steps in the earlier versions of Word. In
Word 97-2003, the AutoCorrect dialog box is instantly seen, one step from
the surface of Word. In Word 2007, it's several layers away from the
surface.

Now please someone explain to me: WHY?

How does this new design make Word's basic commands "easier" to get to?

If Word were an automobile, it would be as if they put the gear shift inside
the glove compartment, and called that a more "user-friendly" car!