I was wondering what use are the workspaces at all, if any. I notice that when I switch to another workspace, all the apps still show in the unity bar and all the icons are still present in the taskbar, and clicking on them takes me to the workspace with those windows. So really, why would I ever care to switch it, and for what purpose? It would have made sense if switching windows completely gave be an empty unity bar where I can start multiple, independent instances of various applications.
Ubuntu – the use of the workspaces
unityworkspaces
Related Solutions
I don't think there is a work-around besides just having only one workspace because of the nature of "Workspace application-switching", or however you wish to word it. I can see how it would make sense that the workspace with the majority of the window is viewed as the workspace that window is in, but could also see how it would be frustrating. I don't know if "Workspace application-switching" is a feature you can turn off, but that would be the only other solution I could think conceivable.
Install CompizConfig Settings Manager
sudo apt-get install compizconfig-settings-manager
I'm not sure if there is otherway, but this works for me. In Ubuntu 14.04.
- Launch
ccsm→ Desktop Wall → Viewport Switching → Uncheck Auto Switch Vp and Window (Check&Uncheck if was Unchecked already)
Well, Auto Switch Vp and Window is not available in Ubuntu 12.04. Then disable Desktop Wall plugin. Tested on a VirtualBox.
- Launch
ccsm→ Uncheck Desktop Wall
Best Answer
Workspaces serve this purpose for me: When I'm supposed to be working on homework but have other plans in mind, I keep my homework on the first workspace and my play on the second. Then, when parent comes by, Quick! Ctrl + Alt + Left Arrow! Wow, William, you've made great progress! Keep up the good work! Then I feel guilty and actually do my schoolwork. Thought I should share a specific situation for using workspaces.