Managed IT Support - Microsoft Word or Google Docs: Balancing Powerful Features with Smooth Collaboration
Just how much do you need out of a word processor? With Microsoft it support Word or Google Docs, it depends upon what you are trying to accomplish.
When considering whether your organization needs to use Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, the distinction between each's word processing applications might be the make or break element.
Microsoft Word and Google Docs both function as cloud-connected writing hubs, however the value of your files could form your choice.
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 concentrate on collaboration.
In this post, we will take a look at the distinctions in 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, monthly, and have different tiers of prices. As it pertains to Word and Docs, the distinction in tiers typically just impacts storage space and schedule 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 need to be pleased with Word Online.
Microsoft provides 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 membership comes with all its web apps. Google does not have downloadable desktop apps, and all need to be lacked a web browser.
When it comes to just how much drive storage is available throughout all these memberships, see the graphic below:
A grid showing the prices and storage abilities of Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace
Text documents are not likely to make much of a damage in your general storage, other than maybe 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 more than enough to house all of your Word files and plenty more.
In general, the functions across both M365 and Workspace will determine which one of these costs works for you.
Functions
Not every business needs thorough features for writing documents, however if you utilize your word processor to write more than one-page reports, there is a possibility you will.
Google Docs is an excellent application for college students who want to be able to write basic documents with little formatting that they can access from anywhere they have a web connection.
Anything more than that, and Docs does not hold a candle to the power of Word. All of it comes down to if Docs is enough.
Docs does have some features that Word online does not, like the ability to modify text styles that you use regularly, in addition to an insertable table of contents.
The desktop version of Word has all the features missing from its online offering, indicating they need to be included after the collaborative element of the file is finished.
Word also has a deep library of design templates that assist to develop the most aesthetically striking documents you can. This makes style simple, as the user only requires to replace placeholder text and images, and input brand name colors.
With the assistance of artificial intelligence, Word Ideas will use all its extra functions to assist users create the best file possible. This includes the layout and writing in overall.
Concepts may suggest a header format rather of manually bolding and centering text. Text tips might be to get rid of jargon or abbreviations in favor of clearer wording.
Consider this as the next generation of spellcheck, as it does more than simply appropriate grammar, making your voice clearer.
Perhaps most significantly, Word and its desktop apps use functionality throughout platforms. Those utilizing Microsoft 365 can easily incorporate their PowerPoint slides, Excel sheets and charts, and other media from the M365 suite into their documents, and vice versa.
Additionally, once documents reach a specific length, like in the case of research study or manuscripts, Google Docs ends up being weighed down. Word is more adept at handling long-form documents without lag.
Thinking about that lots of organizations are already utilizing versions of Microsoft applications, this allows much better crossover when dealing with other business.
M365 users will likely have fewer problems opening documents from other business, a countless which also utilize Word worldwide.
When it comes to functions, Word and all of Microsoft 365 will take the crown.
Desktop apps have the capacity to house far more functions than a web app, and that can be seen throughout M365 and Workspace as a whole.
Collaboration
The applications within Microsoft 365 were built as specific, completely formed programs, with the ability of online partnership added later on in their life. Google Workspace was constructed with collaboration in mind, leaving some of the heftier functions behind.
Both offerings can be modified by multiple individuals simultaneously, saving to the chosen drive practically instantly.
Word lags slightly in contrast to Docs, especially when working out of the desktop app. Initially, it was not possible to send out a collaborative link in Word online, however that function has because been added.
It is likewise much easier to share documents rapidly through Docs, and the ability to change approvals for other users appears instantly when attempting to share.
That feature is just a bit harder to reach with Microsoft, and you should save the file to OneDrive to avoid versioning problems.
While the space isn't as big as some will make it seem, Google Docs is absolutely much better for collaborating within business. It is necessary to keep in mind that you might run into compatibility concerns with other companies that do not utilize Docs. Google has stated it will roll out compatibility with Microsoft files because the launch of their web apps, they are yet to provide on that guarantee.
Considered that collaboration has been a focal point throughout COVID-19, expect both suites to continue to concentrate on growing in this location.
Decision
So, just how much does an organization need in their word processing program? It depends upon the intensity of your documents.
If you normally only keep in mind or write short internal files, it might behoove you to make the most of the collaborative aspects of Google Docs.
If your service exports longer manuscripts for proprietary research or utilizes really specific format, you'll definitely require Microsoft Word. If your service is sending out files to other businesses, Word and 365 should ensure compatibility.
The word processors are just one piece of the Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace productivity suites.
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 until today day.