I use Touchdown by
www.nitrodesk.com for my exchange email, contacts, tasks and calendar.
It's pricey for an app ($20), but allows me to create contacts, tasks, and recurring appointments from my phone. I can also access my employer's global address list.
There are some limitations (can't edit recurring Tasks from my phone, for example), but there is a FREE 5 day trial.
I was also able to use my WinMo device settings and figure out how to set up my new phone without help from IT.
An acceptable solution?