Managed IT Support - Microsoft Word or Google Docs: Balancing Powerful Features with Smooth Partnership
How much do you need out of a word processing program? With Microsoft Word or Google Docs, it depends upon what you are attempting to accomplish.
When thinking about whether your organization must utilize Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, the distinction in between each's data processing applications could be the make or break factor.
Microsoft Word and Google Docs both act as cloud-connected composing hubs, however the value of your files might form your choice.
As users will see across M365 and Workspace, the distinction between desktop and web apps is about stabilizing some of Microsoft's deeper functions and Google's concentrate on cooperation.
In this post, we will look at the distinctions in between Word and Docs, breaking down how the benefits and disadvantages of each might impact your workflow.
Prices
The desktop apps are not offered through Microsoft's Business Basic plan ($ 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.
Meanwhile, every Google Workplace subscription comes with all its web apps. Google does not have downloadable desktop apps, and all need to be run out of a web internet browser.
As for just how much drive storage is offered across all these memberships, 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 possibly on Google's starter plan with only 30 GB of drive storage.
One TB of space on Microsoft's many affordable offering would be more than enough to house all of your Word files and plenty more.
Overall, the features throughout both M365 and Workspace will identify which one of these rates works for you.
Functions
Not every company needs comprehensive functions for writing documents, however if you use your word processing program to compose more than one-page reports, there is an opportunity you will.
Google Docs is an excellent application for university student who wish to have the ability to write https://app.gumroad.com/vwfulcontent/p/leading-it-services-10-benefits-dea7d536-0dfc-45ef-a34b-62fdcf6adb51 basic documents with little format that they can access from anywhere they have a web connection.
Anything more than that, and Docs doesn't compare the power of Word. All of it boils down to if Docs suffices.
Docs does have some functions that Word online does not, like the capability to edit text designs that you utilize consistently, as well as an insertable tabulation.
The desktop version of Word has all the features missing from its online offering, suggesting they ought to be included after the collective element of the file is ended up.
Google's offering does not permit for specific adjustments to paragraph spacing or paragraph marks at all.
Word likewise has a deep library of design templates that help to develop the most visually striking documents you can. This makes style simple, as the user only needs to change placeholder text and images, and input brand colors.
With the assistance of expert system, Word Ideas will use all its additional features to assist users develop the very best file possible. This includes the layout and writing in total.
For instance, Ideas may suggest a header format rather of manually bolding and centering text. Text suggestions may be to eliminate jargon or abbreviations in favor of clearer wording.
Consider this as the next generation of spellcheck, as it does more than just correct grammar, making your voice clearer.
Perhaps most notably, Word and its desktop apps use performance across platforms. Those using Microsoft 365 can quickly integrate their PowerPoint slides, Excel sheets and charts, and other media from the M365 suite into their documents, and vice versa.
Additionally, when documents reach a certain length, like in the case of research or manuscripts, Google Docs ends up being weighed down. Word is more adept at handling long-form files without lag.
Considering that lots of services are currently using versions of Microsoft applications, this allows better crossover when working with other business.
M365 users will likely have fewer issues opening documents from other companies, a countless which also use Word worldwide.
When it concerns features, Word and all of Microsoft 365 will take the crown.
Desktop apps have the capability to house much more functions than a web app, which can be seen across M365 and Workspace as a whole.
Cooperation
The applications within Microsoft 365 were built as individual, fully formed programs, with the ability of online collaboration added later on in their life. Meanwhile, Google Workspace was developed with partnership in mind, leaving some of the heftier functions behind.
Both offerings can be modified by multiple people concurrently, saving to the selected drive almost instantly.
Word lags a little in comparison to Docs, especially when working out of the desktop app. Initially, it was not possible to send out a collective link in Word online, but that feature has actually given that been included.
It is likewise much easier to share documents rapidly through Docs, and the capability to change consents for other users appears immediately when attempting to share.
That function is simply a bit harder to reach with Microsoft, and you should save the file to OneDrive to prevent versioning concerns.
While the space isn't as large as some will make it appear, Google Docs is certainly much better for teaming up within business. It is very important to bear in mind that you may face compatibility problems with other companies that do not use Docs. Google has said it will roll out compatibility with Microsoft documents since the launch of their web apps, they are yet to provide on that promise.
Considered that cooperation has actually been a centerpiece during COVID-19, anticipate both suites to continue to concentrate on growing in this location.
Verdict
So, just how much does an organization requirement in their word processor? It depends on the strength of your files.
If you normally just bear in mind or compose short internal files, it may behoove you to make the most of the collective elements of Google Docs.
If your organization exports longer manuscripts for proprietary research or utilizes really particular format, you'll absolutely require Microsoft Word. If your company is sending out files to other businesses, Word and 365 should ensure compatibility.
The word processors are just one piece of the Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace efficiency suites.
It is most likely that you are not making your decision based solely on these applications, however the functions found on Word could be definitely required and require you towards M365.
IT Support Guys has actually leveraged the power of Microsoft 365 since 2008 when it was still called Business Productivity Online Suite (BPOS), and we have continued our partnership till the present day.