A while ago, Microsoft unveiled that they were working on bringing their Office suite to the web. This is something that many companies have been providing for years already. Two of the most popular offerings are Google Docs and Zoho Docs. Well, Microsoft is ready to change that with the release of Office Web Applications. This will allow users can take advantage of lightweight versions of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote, without having to pay a penny.
So what's so great about having an online word processor or spreadsheet editor? Why not just use the actual Office programs on your local machine? The answer is simple. How much more convenient is it to always have you documents accessible, regardless of location? With online office tools, you can access your data on any computer, in any country, at any time. Not only that, but you can use it to collaborate with other users. Two people are able to simultaneously use the same document and discuss the changes they need to make as they do it.
What makes Microsoft's offering anymore useful than Google or Zoho's? For one thing, it retains the same look and feel of the desktop version, which currently rules the world of desktop office applications. It also allows communication with users that are on the desktop version, allowing collaboration on files, file syncing, and saving directly to the web (from the desktop version). The online apps will have similar functionality to the desktop version, but obviously not all the features. Otherwise, who would spend money to get the desktop version? Currently, you can sign up to test Office 2010 and its Web Applications, but you're not guaranteed an invite.
All I can say is... FINALLY! I have been waiting forever for Microsoft to pull the cat outta the bag on this one. While I am a huge fan, and heavy Google Docs user, I will for sure be switching over to Microsoft's web version of Office. The features are much more robust, the compatibility and syncing between desktop and web are impressive, and the free-ness can't hurt either.
Here's how Microsoft explains it...
"Office Web Applications, the online companion to Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote applications, allow you to access documents from anywhere. You can even simultaneously share and work on documents with others online. View documents across PCs, mobile phones, and the Web without compromising document fidelity. Create new documents and do basic editing using the familiar Office interface. By offering more ways to access files from almost anywhere, Office Web Applications enable you to get things done according to your schedule."
Google and Zoho... It's time to step up your game.
Microsoft Office 2010 is scheduled for a first half of 2010 release. If all goes well, Web Applications are set to go live around the same time. I'm sure I will be covering these products more in the future. Stay tuned.
Video demonstration... See What's New in Microsoft Web Applications 2010
Link for more information and to sign up to test it out... Microsoft Office 2010 Technical Preview
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