Managed IT Support - Microsoft Word or Google Docs: Balancing Powerful Features with Smooth Cooperation
How much do you need out of a word processor? With Microsoft Word or Google Docs, it depends upon what you are trying to achieve.
When considering whether your business must utilize Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, the distinction between each's data processing applications might be the make or break factor.
Microsoft Word and Google Docs both work as cloud-connected composing hubs, however the value of your documents could shape your choice.
As users will see across M365 and Workspace, the distinction in between desktop and web apps has to do with balancing a few of Microsoft's much deeper features and Google's focus on partnership.
In this post, we will take a look at the distinctions between Word and Docs, breaking down how the benefits and disadvantages of each could impact your workflow.
Pricing
Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace are priced per user, monthly, and have different tiers of prices. As it relates to Word and Docs, the distinction in tiers normally just affects storage space and schedule of the Word desktop app.
The desktop apps are not available through Microsoft's Business Basic plan ($ 5/user/month), so users at that level will have 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.
On the other hand, every Google Workplace subscription comes with all its web apps. Google does not have downloadable desktop apps, and all should be run out of a web internet browser.
When it comes to how much drive storage is readily available 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 most likely to make much of a dent in your general storage, except perhaps on Google's starter strategy with only 30 GB of drive storage.
One TB of space on Microsoft's the majority of inexpensive offering would be sufficient 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 costs works for you.
Functions
Not every business requires thorough features for writing documents, but if you use your word processor to compose more than one-page reports, there is a chance you will.
Google Docs is an excellent application for college students who wish to have the ability to write basic documents with little format that they can access from anywhere they have an internet connection.
Anything more than that, and Docs doesn't compare the power of Word. Everything boils down to if Docs is enough.
Docs does have some functions that Word online does not, like the capability to edit text styles that you utilize consistently, as well as an insertable table of contents.
Word likewise has a deep library of templates that assist to develop the most aesthetically striking files you can. This makes design simple, as the user only needs to replace placeholder text and images, and input brand colors.
With the aid of artificial intelligence, Word Ideas will utilize all its additional functions to help users develop the best document possible. This includes the layout and composing in total.
Concepts may suggest a header format rather of manually bolding and focusing text. Text recommendations may be to eliminate jargon or abbreviations in favor of clearer phrasing.
Think about this as the next generation of spellcheck, as it does more than just correct grammar, making your voice clearer.
Maybe most significantly, Word and its desktop apps use functionality across platforms. Those utilizing Microsoft 365 can quickly integrate their PowerPoint slides, Excel sheets and graphs, and other media from the M365 suite into their documents, and vice versa.
Furthermore, as soon as files reach a specific length, like when it comes to research study or manuscripts, Google Docs becomes weighed down. Word is more skilled at handling long-form documents without lag.
Considering that numerous companies are currently utilizing versions of Microsoft applications, this allows better crossover when dealing with other business.
M365 users will likely have less issues opening documents from other companies, a countless which likewise utilize Word worldwide.
When it pertains to features, Word and all of Microsoft 365 will take the crown.
Desktop apps have the capacity to house much more functions than a web app, which can be seen across M365 and Workspace as a whole.
Collaboration
The applications within Microsoft 365 were developed as private, totally formed programs, with the capability of online cooperation added later in their life. Google Workspace was constructed with cooperation in mind, leaving some of the heftier functions behind.
Both offerings can be edited by several individuals concurrently, conserving to the picked drive practically immediately.
Word lags slightly in contrast to Docs, specifically when working out of the desktop app. Originally, it was not possible to send out a collaborative link in Word online, however that feature has considering that been included.
It is also fixed cost it support much easier to share files rapidly through Docs, and the ability to alter consents for other users appears immediately when trying to share.
That feature is just 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 definitely better for working together within business. It is essential to keep in mind that you may face compatibility issues with other companies that do not use Docs. Though Google has said it will roll out compatibility with Microsoft files since the launch of their web apps, they are yet to provide on that pledge.
Considered that collaboration has been a centerpiece throughout COVID-19, anticipate both suites to continue to focus on growing in this area.
Decision
So, just how much does a company need in their word processing program? It depends upon the intensity of your documents.
If you typically only keep in mind or compose short internal files, it might behoove you to take advantage of the collective aspects of Google Docs.
If your company exports longer manuscripts for exclusive research study or uses extremely particular formatting, you'll absolutely require Microsoft Word. If your company is sending out files to other organizations, Word and 365 ought to ensure compatibility.
Keep in mind that the word processors are just one piece of the Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace performance suites.
It is most likely that you are not making your choice based solely on these applications, but the functions discovered on Word might be definitely essential and require you toward 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 collaboration up until the present day.