Radian

The latest Windows editions incorporate all sorts of neat features and thus make navigation easier and more comfortable. Even so, we would still like to make less movements and click less buttons when we launch our favorite applications. If it were possible, we would prefer to run a program just by thinking about it. Until this technology is developed, you can try Radian. While using this simple application, you can bring up any shortcuts, next to the mouse pointer, regardless of what program is currently running or how many windows you have on your screen.

For evaluation purposes, you can use a fully functional trial version for 14 days. The application is compatible with various Windows versions, including Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7. It can be installed fast and you can run it right away, without setting up additional drivers or services or rebooting your computer.

The idea behind Radian is simple, but effective. When you hit the appropriate keyboard shortcut or hold down the right mouse button, the application will display your shortcuts in a circular pattern. Instead of displaying the entire circle, Radian will reveal four arrows and you can hover over them to access each quarter or slice separately. You can either click a displayed shortcut or you can use the arrow keys to navigate through the icons.

Double clicking Radian's system tray icon will display all slices at once. Each slice is divided into six cells, in which you can place your icons. Slices can be configured individually, to show your desktop shortcuts, quick launch items or recently accessed documents or custom shortcuts. It is also possible to change their colors and hide certain icons. You can add your own shortcuts by selecting a cell and browsing for an application's executable or by dragging and dropping a file over a cell.

Radian can be set to launch automatically, when Windows starts. It also allows you to set up your own keyboard shortcut and set a different loading speed, for when you hold down the right mouse button. To prevent bringing up the shortcuts by mistake, you may right click the system tray icon and select an option to disable both triggers.