The Microsoft .NET Framework makes it very easy to create Windows-based applications: You simply create a form, add controls, connect the form to your business logic, and you're finished. But such applications don't always give users the interaction they really want. For example, they typically don't notify users when important external events happen. And the windows all look the same—the same battleship grey form, the same standard controls, the same feel. Boring!

With the .NET Framework and GDI+, you can easily add some style to your applications. You can use transparency, irregularly shaped windows, notification icons, " toast" pop-ups, different color schemes, and many other design elements. Designed well, these techniques can create a much more compelling interaction between your application and your users.

For example, MSN Messenger uses toast pop-ups above the tray area to tell you when a friend has logged in or is trying to contact you. If you want to create similar fade in/fade out notifications for your own software, we'd like to point you to this MSDN Magazine article.