Managed IT Support - Microsoft Word or Google Docs: Balancing Powerful Features with Smooth Cooperation
Just how much do you require out of a word processor? With Microsoft Word or Google Docs, it depends on what you are trying to accomplish.
When considering whether your service ought to use Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, the difference in between each's data processing applications might be the make or break element.
Microsoft Word and Google Docs both work as cloud-connected writing hubs, but the value of your files could form your decision.
As users will see throughout M365 and Workspace, the distinction in between desktop and web apps is about stabilizing some of Microsoft's much deeper features and Google's concentrate on cooperation.
In this post, we will take a look at the distinctions in between Word and Docs, breaking down how the advantages and disadvantages of each could affect your workflow.
Pricing
Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace are priced per user, per month, and have various tiers of pricing. As it relates to Word and Docs, the difference in tiers usually only impacts storage area and schedule of the Word desktop app.
The desktop apps are not offered through Microsoft's Business Basic strategy ($ 5/user/month), so users at that level will need to be pleased with Word Online.
Microsoft offers its apps for as low as $8.25/ user/month, however users then lose on other functions like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and Exchange Online.
Every Google Workplace membership comes with all its web apps. Google does not have downloadable desktop apps, and all should be run out of a web internet browser.
As for how much drive storage is available across all these subscriptions, see the graphic listed below:
A grid showing the rates and storage capabilities of Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace
Text files are not likely to make much of a dent in your general storage, except maybe on Google's starter strategy with only 30 GB of drive storage.
One TB of space on Microsoft's most inexpensive offering would be sufficient to house all of your Word files and plenty more.
Overall, the features across both M365 and Workspace will identify which among these rates works for you.
Functions
Not every business requires detailed functions for composing files, however if you utilize your word processor to compose more than one-page reports, there is an opportunity you will.
Google Docs is a fantastic application for university student who want to have the ability to compose basic documents with little format that they can access from anywhere they have an internet connection.
Anything more than that, and Docs does not compare the power of Word. It all boils down to if Docs suffices.
Docs does have some features that Word online does not, like the ability to edit text designs that you use regularly, along with an insertable table of contents.
The desktop variation of Word has all the features missing out on from its online offering, implying they need to be added after the collaborative aspect of the document is finished.
Google's offering does not allow for particular changes to paragraph spacing or paragraph marks at all.
Word likewise has a deep library of templates that help to produce the most visually striking documents you can. This makes design simple, as the user only needs to replace placeholder text and images, and input brand name colors.
With the assistance of expert system, Word Ideas will utilize all its extra features to help users produce the best document possible. This consists of the layout and composing in overall.
Concepts might suggest a header format instead of by hand bolding and focusing text. Text tips may be to get rid of lingo or abbreviations in favor of clearer phrasing.
Consider this as the next generation of spellcheck, as it does more than just proper grammar, making your voice clearer.
Maybe most importantly, Word and its desktop apps use functionality throughout platforms. Those utilizing Microsoft 365 can easily incorporate their PowerPoint slides, Excel sheets and graphs, and other media from the M365 suite into their files, and vice versa.
Furthermore, once files reach a particular length, like in the case of research study or manuscripts, Google Docs becomes weighed down. Word is more proficient at dealing with long-form documents without lag.
Thinking about that many businesses are currently utilizing variations of Microsoft applications, this allows better crossover when working with other business.
M365 users will likely have less problems opening files from other companies, a countless which also utilize Word worldwide.
When it comes to functions, Word and all of Microsoft 365 will take the crown.
Desktop apps have the capacity to house even more functions than a web app, which can be seen across M365 and Workspace as a whole.
Cooperation
The applications within Microsoft 365 were developed as specific, totally formed programs, with the ability of online partnership included later on in their life. Google Workspace was developed with collaboration in mind, leaving some of the heftier functions behind.
Both offerings can be modified by several individuals concurrently, conserving to the picked drive almost instantly.
Word lags slightly in comparison to Docs, specifically when working out of the desktop app. Initially, it was not possible to send out a collective link in Word online, but that function has considering that been added.
It is also simpler to share documents quickly through Docs, and the capability to alter permissions for other users appears immediately when attempting to share.
That feature is just a bit harder to reach with Microsoft, and you must conserve the file to OneDrive to avoid versioning issues.
While the space isn't as big as some will make it appear, Google Docs is definitely much better for collaborating within companies. It is necessary to keep in mind that you might face compatibility issues with other companies that do not utilize Docs. Though Google has stated it will roll out compatibility with Microsoft files since the launch of their web apps, they are yet to deliver on that guarantee.
Considered that collaboration has actually been a focal point during COVID-19, expect both suites to continue to focus on growing in this area.
Decision
So, just how much does a company requirement in their word processor? It depends on the strength of your files.
If you normally only keep in mind or compose brief internal documents, it might behoove you to make the most of the collaborative elements of Google Docs.
If your company exports longer manuscripts for proprietary research or uses very specific format, you'll definitely need Microsoft Word. If your company is sending out documents to Click here other services, Word and 365 needs to ensure compatibility.
Remember that the word processors are only one piece of the Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace productivity suites.
IT Support Guys has actually leveraged the power of Microsoft 365 because 2008 when it was still called Business Productivity Online Suite (BPOS), and we have actually continued our collaboration till today day.