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Office Web Apps vs. Google Docs - See for Yourself

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Top Resources on Why Microsoft Website: Part 1 of 3

For over two decades, millions of people have been using Microsoft Office to power their businesses.  As we move into the cloud computing age, people expect to share and collaborate with their customers and colleagues with the same level of confidence, whether they are using desktop software or web based services.  We believe a document should look exactly the same in the cloud as the original copy on the desktop.  In today’s post, part 1 of a 3 part series to introduce top resources available on the Why Microsoft web site, you will see a side-by-side comparison of Word Web App vs. Google Documents.  So what's the real cost of Google Apps? See for yourself.

What happens when you take an existing Word document and share it in the cloud? In this demo, you can compare the viewing experience of using the Office Web Apps vs. Google Docs. We took a simple Word file with some of the most commonly used features (header, footer, table, images, etc.) and uploaded it to Google Apps and Windows Live Sky Drive (you can also use SharePoint if applicable). Right away you can see some glaring issues in Google Docs that could significantly affect your business:

Lack of Fit and Finish
The document in Google Docs shows several styling and formatting issues - take a close look at the header, title, and table.  Although these formatting issues may seem small, they affect the overall look and feel of the document making it appear less professional.

Word Web App Result  Google Documents Result

Lost Data and Information
Aside from styling issues, important information could be lost in converting a Word file to Google Docs.  We highlighted a few missing pieces of content in this demo:

  • “Confidential” watermark
  • Revenue Chart
  • Process Map Graphic
  • Footer information
Word Web App Result Google Documents Result

Lost Productivity
There is no ambiguity here whatsoever. The data is lost and the content is altered in your document when using Google Docs to share a Word file. You now have to double check the document for accuracy to make sure all pertinent information is there and then make necessary changes to fix your document before sharing it anywhere.  All this additional time spent reformatting translates to lost productivity.  It does not matter if Google Apps costs $50/user/yr. if it is inadequate for even the simplest business requirements. Most people would not jeopardize their business credibility and ability to deliver professional results.  Would you?

Don’t take my word for it. See the demo for yourself.

If you have already tried Google Docs, tell us your experience in viewing a Word file in the comments below.  Check back next week for Part 2 of Top Resources on Why Microsoft website.

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