THE OFFICIAL BLOG OF THE SBS DIVA

Kicking the Tires on Windows 8 Server:
http://www.serverwatch.com/server-reviews/kicking-the-tires-on-windows-8-server.html

The user interface for server manager is built on top of Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) and has been treated to a well-thought-out redesign. Some of the words used to describe the design themes include making information "glanceable" and "actionable." For example, when you choose a particular function in the left-hand tree view, it collapses to provide more screen real estate for other task-specific information. When you hover over the "Tasks" label, you'll see a pop-up drop-down list of context-specific available options.

I think I've been using the wrong beta.  He calls the metro on a server as well thought out and glanceable and actionable.  I'm in search of the classic menu.  Now one can argue that Microsoft thinks that we're all going to be managing servers using a System Center console and command line, but when you manage Server 2003 to 2008 to 2008R2 to the upcoming Windows 8, not all of those support the same level of PowerShell and consoles.

Bottom line, I'm not convinced Metro on a server is a good idea.  Time will tell if they change their mind on this and allow a classic view.