I have been using WinKey (freeware) for month without any problem to create shortcut keys to let me quickly launch programs on my computer (e.g. Win + W to launch MS Word). However, the program functions are just very basic (can launch programs, folders, and file only) and is no longer under development. Recently I have been searching for free alternatives which has more function and I found AutoHotKey!

Though it requires you to edit the text-based configuration file (autohotkey.ini) in a text editor (like notepad), its functionality is much richer than WinKey. Not only you can launch files and folders, you can also write scripts to automate your tasks, control your mouse, and even write GUI(!) to receive input from users!

The fun doesn’t end here. The most amazing thing is that you can compile your script as a standalone application! I have written a clock which ticks every second and is always-on-top, draggable, and customizable. It also has a transparent background. It is also a handy stopwatch and slient timer!!

Try AutoHotKey (freeware): http://www.autohotkey.com/

Download OSD Clock 1.0 written in AutoHotKey!