Managed IT Support - Microsoft Word or Google Docs: Balancing Powerful Features with Smooth Collaboration
Managed IT Support - Microsoft Word or Google Docs: Balancing Powerful Features with Smooth Partnership
Just how much do you require out of a word processing program? With Microsoft Word or Google Docs, it depends on what you are attempting to accomplish.
When considering whether your business needs to utilize Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, the distinction in between each's data processing applications might be the make or break element.
Microsoft Word and Google Docs both function as cloud-connected writing centers, however the importance of your documents might form your decision.
As users will see throughout M365 and Workspace, the difference in between desktop and web apps has to do with stabilizing a few of Microsoft's deeper features and Google's focus on collaboration.
In this post, we will take a look at the distinctions in between Word and Docs, breaking down how the advantages and drawbacks of each might affect your workflow.
Rates
Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace are priced per user, monthly, and have different tiers of pricing. As it relates to Word and Docs, the difference in tiers typically just impacts storage area and availability of the Word desktop app.
The desktop apps are not readily available 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, but users then lose on other functions like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and Exchange Online.
On the other hand, every Google Workplace membership features all its web apps. Google does not have downloadable desktop apps, and all must be lacked a web browser.
As for how much drive storage is offered throughout all these subscriptions, see the graphic below:
A grid revealing the costs and storage capabilities of Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace
Text files are not likely to make much of a damage in your total storage, other than possibly business it support team ltd on Google's starter strategy with only 30 GB of drive storage.
One TB of space on Microsoft's most low-cost offering would be ample to house all of your Word documents and plenty more.
In general, the features throughout both M365 and Workspace will figure out which among these prices works for you.
Features
Not every business requires extensive functions for composing documents, however if you utilize your word processing program to compose more than one-page reports, there is a chance you will.
Google Docs is a fantastic application for college students who wish to have the ability to write standard documents with little format that they can access from anywhere they have an internet connection.
Anything more than that, and Docs does not hold a candle to the power of Word. Everything boils down to if Docs suffices.
Docs does have some functions that Word online does not, like the ability to edit text designs that you utilize regularly, along with an insertable tabulation.
The desktop variation of Word has all the features missing out on from its online offering, meaning they must be included after the collective aspect of the file is finished.
Google's offering does not permit for particular adjustments to paragraph spacing or paragraph marks at all.
Word likewise has a deep library of templates that assist to create the most visually striking documents you can. This makes design simple, as the user only requires to change placeholder text and images, and input brand colors.
Ideas may suggest a header format rather of manually bolding and focusing text. Text tips might be to eliminate jargon or abbreviations in favor of clearer wording.
Think of this as the next generation of spellcheck, as it does more than just proper grammar, making your voice clearer.
Maybe most significantly, Word and its desktop apps use functionality throughout platforms. Those using Microsoft 365 can quickly incorporate their PowerPoint slides, Excel sheets and graphs, and other media from the M365 suite into their documents, and vice versa.
In addition, when files reach a particular length, like when it comes to research or manuscripts, Google Docs becomes weighed down. Word is more adept at managing long-form files without lag.
Thinking about that many companies are currently using variations of Microsoft applications, this enables better crossover when dealing with other companies.
M365 users will likely have less issues opening files from other companies, a countless which also utilize Word worldwide.
When it concerns features, Word and all of Microsoft 365 will take the crown.
Desktop apps have the capability to house far more functions than a web app, and that can be seen across M365 and Workspace as a whole.
The applications within Microsoft 365 were developed as individual, completely formed programs, with the capability of online cooperation added later in their life. On The Other Hand, Google Workspace was built with collaboration in mind, leaving a few of the heftier features behind.
Both offerings can be modified by multiple people simultaneously, saving to the picked drive practically instantly.
Word lags slightly in contrast to Docs, particularly when working out of the desktop app. Originally, it was not possible to send a collective link in Word online, however that feature has because been added.
It is likewise much easier to share files quickly through Docs, and the ability to alter permissions for other users appears instantly when trying to share.
That function is simply a bit harder to reach with Microsoft, and you must 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 better for teaming up within companies. It is essential to bear in mind that you might encounter compatibility problems with other business that do not use Docs. Though Google has stated it will present compatibility with Microsoft files because the launch of their web apps, they are yet to deliver on that pledge.
Given that partnership has been a focal point during COVID-19, expect both suites to continue to concentrate on growing in this location.
Decision
So, how much does a business need in their word processor? It depends upon the strength of your files.
If you typically it services gold coast only take notes or compose brief internal documents, it may behoove you to take advantage of the collective elements of Google Docs.
If your organization exports longer manuscripts for proprietary research or uses extremely particular format, you'll definitely require Microsoft Word. If your organization is sending documents to other businesses, Word and 365 must guarantee compatibility.
The word processors are just one piece of the Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace productivity suites.
It is likely that you are not making your choice business it support gold coast based exclusively on these applications, however the features found on Word might be definitely needed and force you toward M365.
IT Support Guys has leveraged the power of Microsoft 365 because 2008 when it was still called Business Productivity Online Suite (BPOS), and we have actually continued our partnership until the present day.