With the upcoming release of Windows 8, Microsoft Windows and .NET developers are shifting their focus to build eye-catching web applications with powerful user interfaces using elements inherited from the operating system. Today's software development tools must thus perform equally well in supporting the creation of attractive, intuitive, and fast-performing UIs and meeting developers' needs throughout the application development lifecycle. The latest release of DevExpress's DXperience, version 12.1, provides advanced controls that do a good job of meeting both sets of needs.