I strongly disagree with you. I think eventhough some of the buttons in the new office are too big, the overall new office gives me (as a heavy user) a much better working experience than the older version.

The GUI at first was shocking more than it seemed advanced but I have to tell you it took me a few minutes to discover what I was looking for, each time I needed it. I felt completely confident in the new design to continue working knowing I will find what I need every time, And it really happened. Something about this GUI is very correct, I can’t even explain.

Add to that the fact they changed the order of the menus, placing most useful design buttons at your reach (also during writing - you get pop up design box with most-most useful tools; Add to that the fact you got live preview of design changes; Add to that the fact you have hidden tabs showing only when needed (headers, picture tools, etc) and I have to say, again, I strongly disagree and really like it.
You know I am not a big Microsoft fan; I just compromise for PC + windows (XP at the moment till am totally convinced 7 has no Vista bugs) and the rest are non MS products, but the new office is really working for me, Have to say.

I have to admit 2 things:
a) I never used Mac office in the past years.
b) You are not the first one that dislikes this new design.

on the other hand - heard a few people that like it a lot.. So go figure..

:)

Mac office seems like a new adventure I should try once..who knows..