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 trying to achieve.
When thinking about whether your business should utilize Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, the difference in between each's data processing applications might be the make or break aspect.
Microsoft Word and Google Docs both serve as cloud-connected composing hubs, however the significance of your files 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 functions and Google's focus on cooperation.
In this post, we will look at the differences between Word and Docs, breaking down how the benefits and disadvantages of each might affect your workflow.
Pricing
Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace are priced per user, per month, and have different tiers of rates. As it pertains to Word and Docs, the difference in tiers typically https://squareblogs.net/repriaullq/h2-key-tips-to-obtain-efficient-cloud-migration-solutions-h2-in-this only impacts storage area and schedule 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 satisfied with Word Online.
Microsoft uses its apps for as low as $8.25/ user/month, but users then lose out 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 must be run out of a web internet browser.
When it comes to how much drive storage is offered throughout all these subscriptions, see the graphic below:
A grid showing the costs 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, other than possibly on Google's starter plan with only 30 GB of drive storage.
One TB of space on Microsoft's the majority of economical offering would be ample to house all of your Word documents and plenty more.
In general, the functions throughout both M365 and Workspace will identify which one of these costs works for you.
Features
Not every business requires detailed functions for composing documents, but if you use your word processing program to write more than one-page reports, there is a possibility you will.
Google Docs is an excellent application for university student who want to be able to compose standard documents with little formatting that they can access from anywhere they have a web connection.
Anything more than that, and Docs doesn't hold a candle to the power of Word. It all comes 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.
Nevertheless, Google's offering does not permit particular modifications to paragraph spacing or paragraph marks at all.
Word also has a deep library of templates that assist to create the most aesthetically striking files you can. This makes style basic, as the user just needs to replace placeholder text and images, and input brand colors.
With the assistance of expert system, Word Ideas will make use of all its extra features to help users produce the best document possible. This includes the design and composing in overall.
For example, Ideas might recommend a header format rather of by hand bolding and focusing text. Text ideas may be to remove lingo or abbreviations in favor of clearer phrasing.
Think about this as the next generation of spellcheck, as it does more than simply proper grammar, making your voice clearer.
Perhaps most importantly, Word and its desktop apps provide performance across platforms. Those using Microsoft 365 can quickly incorporate their PowerPoint slides, Excel sheets and charts, and other media from the M365 suite into their files, and vice versa.
Furthermore, when documents reach a certain length, like in the case of research study or manuscripts, Google Docs becomes weighed down. Word is more proficient at managing long-form documents without lag.
Considering that lots of businesses are already utilizing versions of Microsoft applications, this permits better crossover when dealing with other business.
M365 users will likely have less issues opening documents from other companies, a countless which likewise use Word worldwide.
When it pertains to 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, and that can be seen throughout M365 and Workspace as a whole.
Cooperation
The applications within Microsoft 365 were developed as individual, fully formed programs, with the ability of online collaboration added later in their life. Meanwhile, Google Workspace was developed with collaboration in mind, leaving a few of the heftier features behind.
Both offerings can be modified by several individuals simultaneously, saving to the chosen drive nearly immediately.
Word lags somewhat 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, however that function has given that been included.
It is likewise much easier to share files rapidly through Docs, and the capability to alter permissions for other users appears instantly when attempting to share.
That function is just a bit harder to reach with Microsoft, and you should conserve the file to OneDrive to avoid versioning issues.
While the gap isn't as large as some will make it appear, Google Docs is definitely much better for teaming up within business. It is very important to keep in mind that you might encounter compatibility problems with other business that do not utilize Docs. Google has said it will roll out compatibility with Microsoft files since the launch of their web apps, they are yet to deliver on that pledge.
Given that collaboration has been a centerpiece during COVID-19, anticipate both suites to continue to concentrate on growing in this location.
Verdict
How much does a business requirement in their word processor? It depends on the intensity of your files.
If you normally only bear in mind or compose short internal files, it might behoove you to benefit from the collaborative aspects of Google Docs.
If your company exports longer manuscripts for proprietary research study or uses really particular formatting, you'll definitely require Microsoft Word. If your organization is sending out files to other companies, Word and 365 ought to guarantee compatibility.
Remember that the word processors are only one piece of the Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace performance suites.
It is likely that you are not making your decision based entirely on these applications, but the features discovered on Word could be definitely required and require you toward M365.
IT Support Guys has leveraged the power of Microsoft 365 given that 2008 when it was still called Business Productivity Online Suite (BPOS), and we have continued our partnership till the present day.