One of the most common software packages installed on personal computers is an “office suite” of applications. This contains software to generate word processing, spreadsheet and presentation documents. Some packages also include software to handle database, email and other functions as well. With all that functionality a package like Microsoft Office Professional can cost up to almost $500.
There are free alternatives to Microsoft Office out there. Two of them are Open Office (www.openoffice.org) and IBM Lotus Symphony (http://symphony.lotus.com).
Both of the packages can be downloaded at no cost. You will have to decide if they are for you by answering many of the following questions:
- Does the package handle (reading and writing) all of the file types that I work with? With new versions of Microsoft Office generating new file types, you may not be able to open some files sent to you from someone else.
- Does the package have all the applications that I need? Both packages do not have Microsoft Access functionality. They also lack an email front-end like Outlook.
- How difficult will it be to learn a new program and its menu structures?
This is a tough decision. You can save lots of money on the initial software purchase yet potentially cost yourself more money in lost productivity and functionality.
