Managed IT Support - Microsoft Word or Google Docs: Balancing Powerful Features with Smooth Cooperation
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 company needs to use Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, the difference between each's word processing applications could be the make or break element.
Microsoft Word and Google Docs both function as cloud-connected composing centers, however the importance of your files might form your choice.
As users small business it support will see across M365 and Workspace, the difference between desktop and web apps has to do with balancing some of Microsoft's deeper functions and Google's concentrate on partnership.
In this post, we will take a look at the differences between Word and Docs, breaking down how the benefits and drawbacks of each could impact your workflow.
Pricing
Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace are priced per user, per month, and have various tiers of rates. As it relates to Word and Docs, the difference in tiers usually only affects storage area and availability 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 uses 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 subscription includes all its web apps. Google does not have downloadable desktop apps, and all should be lacked a web browser.
As for how much drive storage is available throughout all these subscriptions, see the graphic below:
A grid revealing the prices and storage capabilities of Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace
Text files are not most likely to make much of a dent in your total storage, except perhaps on Google's starter strategy with only 30 GB of drive storage.
One TB of area on Microsoft's many affordable offering would be sufficient to house all of your Word documents and plenty more.
Overall, the features throughout both M365 and Workspace will figure out which among these rates works for you.
Functions
Not every company needs detailed features for writing files, however if you use your word processing program to compose more than one-page reports, there is a possibility you will.
Google Docs is a fantastic application for university student who want to have the ability to compose standard documents with little formatting that they can access from anywhere they have an internet connection.
Anything more than that, and Docs does not compare the power of Word. All of it boils down to if Docs is enough.
Docs does have some functions that Word online does not, like the ability to edit text designs that you utilize consistently, in addition to an insertable table of contents.
The desktop variation of Word has all the features missing from its online offering, implying they should be included after the collaborative aspect of the document is ended up.
Google's offering does not enable for specific adjustments to paragraph spacing or paragraph marks at all.
Word likewise has a deep library of design templates that assist to create the most aesthetically striking documents you can. This makes style 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 additional functions to help users develop the very best file possible. This includes the design and writing in total.
Concepts may recommend a header format instead of manually bolding and centering text. Text suggestions might be to eliminate lingo or abbreviations in favor of clearer phrasing.
Think about this as the next generation of spellcheck, as it does more than simply correct grammar, making your voice clearer.
Perhaps most importantly, Word and its desktop apps offer functionality 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, as soon as documents reach a specific length, like when it comes to research study or manuscripts, Google Docs becomes weighed down. Word is more skilled at managing long-form files without lag.
Thinking about that lots of companies are already using versions of Microsoft applications, this permits much better crossover when dealing with other companies.
M365 users will likely have less problems opening documents from other business, a countless which also use Word worldwide.
When it pertains to functions, Word and all of Microsoft 365 will take the crown.
Desktop apps have the capability to house even more functions than a web app, and that can be seen across M365 and Workspace as a whole.
Cooperation
The applications within Microsoft 365 were developed as specific, completely formed programs, with the ability of online partnership included later on in their life. On The Other Hand, Google Workspace was built with partnership in mind, leaving some of the heftier functions behind.
Both offerings can be edited by numerous individuals simultaneously, saving to the selected drive almost instantaneously.
Word lags somewhat in contrast to Docs, particularly when working out of the desktop app. Originally, it was not possible to send a collaborative link in Word online, however that function has considering that been included.
It is likewise much easier to share files rapidly through Docs, and the capability to alter approvals for other users appears right away when trying to share.
That feature is just a bit harder to reach with Microsoft, and you must save the file to OneDrive to avoid versioning problems.
While the gap isn't as big as some will make it seem, Google Docs is certainly much better for working together within companies. It is essential to bear in mind that you may face compatibility problems with other business that do not use Docs. Google has said it will roll out compatibility with Microsoft documents because the launch of their web apps, they are yet to provide on that guarantee.
Considered that partnership has actually been a focal point during COVID-19, anticipate both suites to continue to focus on growing in this area.
Decision
How much does a business requirement in their word processor? It depends on the strength of your files.
If you normally only keep in mind or compose brief internal files, it may behoove you to make the most of the collective aspects of Google Docs.
If your business exports longer manuscripts for exclusive research or utilizes really specific format, you'll definitely require Microsoft Word. If your business is sending files to other businesses, Word and 365 ought to ensure compatibility.
Bear in mind that the word processors are only one piece of the Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace performance suites.
It is most likely that you are not making your decision based entirely on these applications, but the functions found on Word could be absolutely necessary and force you toward M365.
IT Support Guys has actually leveraged the power of Microsoft 365 considering that 2008 when it was still called Business Productivity Online Suite (BPOS), and we have actually continued our partnership until the present day.