Managed IT Support - Microsoft Word or Google Docs: Balancing Powerful Features with Seamless Collaboration
How much do you need out of a word processing program? With Microsoft Word or Google Docs, it depends on what you are attempting to achieve.
When thinking about whether your organization ought to use Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, the difference in between each's word processing applications might be the make or break factor.
Microsoft Word and Google Docs both serve as cloud-connected composing hubs, however the value of your files could shape your decision.
As users will see across M365 and Workspace, the distinction between desktop and web apps is about balancing some of Microsoft's deeper it services gold coast functions and Google's focus on cooperation.
In this post, we will look at the differences in between Word and Docs, breaking down how the benefits and disadvantages of each might affect your workflow.
Prices
Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace are priced per user, monthly, and have different tiers of rates. As it pertains to Word and Docs, the difference in tiers generally only impacts storage area and accessibility of the Word desktop app.
The desktop apps are not offered through Microsoft's Business Basic plan ($ 5/user/month), so users at that level will have to be satisfied 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.
Every Google Workplace membership 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.
When it comes to just how much drive storage is readily available throughout all these subscriptions, see the graphic listed below:
A grid showing the rates and storage abilities of Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace
Text files are not likely to make much of a damage in your total storage, except possibly on Google's starter plan with only 30 GB of drive storage.
One TB of area on Microsoft's a lot of economical offering would be more than enough to house all of your Word files and plenty more.
In general, the functions throughout both M365 and Workspace will figure out which among these prices works for you.
Functions
Not every business needs thorough functions for writing documents, however if you use your word processing program to compose more than one-page reports, there is a possibility you will.
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 modify text designs that you utilize regularly, in addition to an insertable table of contents.
The desktop variation of Word has all the functions missing from its online offering, implying they need to be included after the collaborative aspect of the document is finished.
Google's offering does not enable for specific adjustments to paragraph spacing or paragraph marks at all.
Word also has a deep library of templates that assist to create the most visually striking documents you can. This makes design easy, as the user just requires to replace placeholder text and images, and input brand name colors.
With the assistance of expert system, Word Ideas will make use of all its additional functions to assist users produce the very best file possible. This includes the layout and composing in overall.
Ideas might recommend a header format instead of by hand bolding and focusing text. Text suggestions may be to get rid of lingo or abbreviations in favor of clearer phrasing.
Think of this as the next generation of spellcheck, as it does more than just appropriate grammar, making your voice clearer.
Possibly most significantly, Word and its desktop apps provide performance across platforms. Those utilizing 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, as soon as files reach a particular length, like when it comes to research study or manuscripts, Google Docs ends up being weighed down. Word is more adept at dealing with long-form documents without lag.
Thinking about that numerous businesses are already using versions of Microsoft applications, this permits much better crossover when working with other business.
M365 users will likely have less issues opening files from other business, a million of 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 far more functions than a web app, which can be seen throughout M365 and Workspace as a whole.
Partnership
The applications within Microsoft 365 were built as individual, completely formed programs, with the ability of online partnership included later on in their life. Google Workspace was developed with partnership in mind, leaving some of the heftier features behind.
Both offerings can be edited by several individuals concurrently, saving to the selected drive practically instantaneously.
Word lags a little in comparison to Docs, specifically 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 because been added.
It is also simpler to share files quickly through Docs, and the ability to change authorizations 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 problems.
While the gap isn't as large as some will make it seem, Google Docs is absolutely much better for collaborating within companies. It is essential to bear in mind that you might encounter compatibility issues with other companies that do not use Docs. Though Google has stated it will present compatibility with Microsoft files considering that the launch of their web apps, they are yet to provide on that pledge.
Considered that cooperation has actually been a focal point throughout COVID-19, expect both suites to continue to focus on growing in this location.
Decision
So, just how much does a company requirement in their word processing program? It depends on the intensity of your files.
If you generally just bear in mind or write brief internal files, it might behoove you to make the most of the collective elements of Google Docs.
If your service exports longer manuscripts for exclusive research or utilizes really specific formatting, you'll definitely need Microsoft Word. If your company is sending out documents to other organizations, Word and 365 should ensure compatibility.
Keep in mind that the word processors are just one piece of the Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace efficiency suites.
It is likely that you are not making your choice based exclusively on these applications, but the features found on Word could be absolutely required and force you towards M365.
IT Support Guys has actually leveraged the power of Microsoft 365 because 2008 when it was still called Business Productivity Online Suite (BPOS), and we have continued our partnership till today day.