It was rumored a while ago that Microsoft would be releasing something like a “web version” of it’s popular productivity line, but I hadn’t heard much (perhaps because I almost don’t care).
But it popped back onto my radar when I found myself in a conversation surrounding cloud-computing, google apps, and office – I decided to check it out.
Well, a BETA release is now available for Windows-X users to try out:
With Microsoft Office Web Apps, you can access documents from virtually anywhere.
Whether you’re editing a document from home or collaborating with someone around the world, Office Web Apps help you work the way you want.
Hmm. Why do I feel like Microsoft is late to the game…?
Is this something you’ll be checking out? If you’ve tried it already, what are your thoughts?
oschurch says
If you’d like to try a similar open source product, you might check out Abiword as well.
Kevin
http://opensourcechurch.com
Adam Shields says
I have used the 2010 beta primarily for the past month or two, but not the web apps at all. Really like the program, but I don’t have a lot of web app uses for programs I have computer based options for.
rojo says
It has been in beta since last November. And yes they are late but the experience is pretty sweet!
dewde says
rojo:
Oohh, that is good news. I actually like Microsoft. And a little competition for Google Docs will help further innovation all around!
peace | dewde
dewde says
If it’s anything like OWA (web-based Outlook), I;d rather get kicked in my sensitive areas than use it.
peace | dewde
Mark says
Assuming you’ve not used OWA 2010 yet
dewde says
Nope.
Most organizations I’ve worked with are slow to upgrade/tamper-with-in-any-fashion mission critical Exchange servers. This hurts Microsoft’s “PR”.
peace | dewde
brett barner says
So late, and still as complicated as ever.
I went to a Office 2010 conference a few months ago, and was rolling my eyes the whole time (and I’m a PC!).
They are more versatile than Google Apps, but when you get into sharing, or co-authoring, look out.
dewde says
Less is more!
peace | dewde
Mark says
I’ve seen Sharepoint 2010 and it’s web parts.. pretty awesome. MSFT may be late, but integrating into sharepoint is a smart move. If you have a software license, you’ll be covered for “web” licensing in sharepoint 2010.
I use google docs for personal, basic functionality. Office is where I live for more control over formatting and standardization
Stephen Bateman says
No, I won’t try them out, but I think like Dewde said, competition is important.
I feel like Google has gotten a little chill all around (maybe that isn’t true, but it feels like it at least). They have been improving Youtube, but Gmail, search, Docs etc seem to be in stasis.
So good job Microsoft in providing competition w/ Bing and this cloud app, I hope they drive innovation for a year or two, and then die. Because I trust Msft to make a great word processor, but I certainly dont believe they have it in them to rock cloud computing.