Managed IT Support - Microsoft Word or Google Docs: Balancing Powerful Includes with Smooth Partnership
How much do you require out of a word processing program? With Microsoft Word or Google Docs, it depends on what you are attempting to achieve.
When considering whether your service ought to utilize Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, the distinction between each's data processing applications could be the make or break aspect.
Microsoft Word and Google Docs both serve as cloud-connected composing centers, however the importance of your files might shape your choice.
As users will see across M365 and Workspace, the difference between desktop and web apps has to do with balancing some of Microsoft's much deeper functions and Google's focus on cooperation.
In this post, we will take a look at the distinctions between Word and Docs, breaking down how the benefits and drawbacks of each might affect your workflow.
Rates
Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace are priced per user, monthly, and have different tiers of pricing. As it relates to Word and Docs, the difference in tiers typically just affects storage area and accessibility of the Word desktop app.
The desktop apps are not readily available through Microsoft's Business Basic strategy ($ 5/user/month), so users at that level will need to be satisfied with Word Online.
Microsoft provides 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.
On the other hand, firewall security every Google Workplace subscription comes with all its web apps. Google does not have downloadable desktop apps, and all should be lacked a web browser.
When it comes to just how much drive storage is available across all these memberships, see the graphic listed below:
A grid showing the costs and storage capabilities of Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace
Text files are not likely to make much of a dent in your overall 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 sufficient to house all of your Word files and plenty more.
In general, the functions throughout both M365 and Workspace will figure out which one of these costs works for you.
Functions
Not every business requires comprehensive features for composing files, however if you utilize your word processing program to compose 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 basic papers 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 comes down to if Docs suffices.
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.
Nevertheless, Google's offering does not allow for particular modifications to paragraph spacing or paragraph marks at all.
Word likewise has a deep library of design templates that help to develop the most visually striking documents you can. This makes design basic, as the user just needs to replace placeholder text and images, and input brand colors.
With the help of artificial intelligence, Word Ideas will make use of all its extra functions to assist users develop the very best file possible. This includes the design and writing in total.
For instance, Ideas might recommend a header format rather of manually bolding and centering text. Text ideas may be to eliminate lingo or abbreviations in favor of clearer wording.
Think about this as the next generation of spellcheck, as it does more than just right grammar, making your voice clearer.
Maybe most notably, Word and its desktop apps offer functionality 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, when files reach a specific length, like when it comes to research or manuscripts, Google Docs ends up being weighed down. Word is more proficient at dealing with long-form documents without lag.
Thinking about that lots of services are currently using variations of Microsoft applications, this enables much better crossover when working with other business.
M365 users will likely have fewer problems opening files from other business, a million of which also utilize Word worldwide.
When it concerns features, Word and all of Microsoft 365 will take the crown.
Collaboration
The applications within Microsoft 365 were built as specific, totally formed programs, with the capability of online cooperation included later in their life. Google Workspace was constructed with collaboration in mind, leaving some of the heftier features behind.
Both offerings can be edited by numerous people simultaneously, saving to the picked drive almost instantly.
Word lags somewhat 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 feature has actually because been added.
It is also much easier to share files quickly through Docs, and the ability to alter permissions for other users appears immediately when trying to share.
That function is just a bit harder to reach with Microsoft, and you need to save the file to OneDrive to prevent versioning issues.
While the gap isn't as big as some will make it seem, Google Docs is definitely much better for working together within business. It is very important to keep in mind that you may encounter compatibility problems with other business that do not use Docs. Google has stated it will roll out compatibility with Microsoft files given that the launch of their web apps, they are yet to deliver on that guarantee.
Given that cooperation has actually been a focal point throughout COVID-19, expect both suites to continue to focus on growing in this area.
Decision
So, just how much does a company requirement in their word processor? It depends upon the strength of your files.
If you generally just keep in mind or write brief internal files, it may behoove you to take advantage of the collective elements of Google Docs.
If your service exports longer manuscripts for proprietary research or uses very specific format, you'll absolutely need Microsoft Word. If your company is sending out documents to other services, Word and 365 should guarantee compatibility.
Bear 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 decision based entirely on these applications, but the functions found on Word might be definitely required and force you toward M365.
IT Support Guys has actually leveraged the power of Microsoft 365 given that 2008 when it was still called Business Productivity Online Suite (BPOS), and we have continued our collaboration till the present day.