Launchers can be used to completely customise the look and feel of your phone - some provide some useful extras you may not have heard about.
There are lots of launchers available from the Play Store, and other sources, that you try out to see which suits you best.
There are always new Apps / versions coming to the market so it is probably best just to search for what is currently available or those that may be promoted as in this AndroidPit article.
Here is a small selection that look not bad just to give you a taste :-
EVIE : Glovebox : Google Now : Necta {S.O.S.} : Nova : Slide : Switchr
A special App called TUFFS is available free and in an inexpensive paid for version both of which can be installed within the control of your usual launcher. It sits out of the way in the ‘Notifications’ shade area and is easily customised with your favourite entries so that they are all only just a quick ‘swipe down’ away giving you fast and easy access from any screen.