>-Following window standards for menus, toolbars etc. (Familiarity)

I don't know if it is important to follow window's standards. The implementation of the "standards" are not much different (IMO) than they were back in 3.1.

The "Windows" approach is just one, but not the only approach to intuitive design. We're just used to it. Since most of the stuff the desktop are MS products, and the implied "standard" may be more of a "manufacturing" convenience.

I think graphic artists would be the a good source for alternative "intuitive" design methodolgies. I am glad you are going to think on it!:)