For those who have been struggling with Windows 8, I had told that Microsoft was coming out with an update in May. THIS IN INCORRECT. Microsoft is coming out with a "preview" version. The final official update will be later this year. There are several good alternatives. This link gives several good recommendations:
http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-33642_7-57496506-292/how-to-get-the-start-menu-back-in-windows-8/