Think That You Don't Need Microsoft Office IT Training? Think Again

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When it comes to IT training, some people may assume that Microsoft Office training is simply designed for beginners. As someone who has used a computer throughout your education and working life, maybe you’d assume that you already know all that there is to know about using programmes such as Word, Excel and Outlook. However, as with many areas, there is always more to learn.

The Growth of Software as a Service

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Back in the day software was something only the IT man was concerned with, and the choice of programmes was rather limited to what were seen as essential computing needs such as Word Processing and Spreadsheets and the like. But with the computer and mobile devices now an essential part of almost everyone’s daily lives, software too has grown to become a massive industry in itself.

Some of the software titles most of us would have been familiar with in the past might have included Microsoft Office, accounting packages like Quickbooks and illustration programmes such as Photoshop. All of these software packages have evolved and been updated many times, with current versions being almost unrecognizable to the original releases. For some, keeping up with the latest release of Microsoft Office or Photoshop is a hobby in itself.

In the past certain companies would hold a monopoly over their field for the software market, but that is no longer the case thanks to thousands of clever programmers dissecting the internet to create their own, cheaper versions of software for people to buy or download. This is great news fro anyone on a budget. Spending out on software just to find it is suddenly out of date due to a new update or release is never fun.

Open-source or free software has become particularly popular, and there are a lot of site on the web dedicating to listing free software downloads. Many internet users campaign for all software to be freely available to download on the web, but of course the developers aren’t always in favor of this and many still charge a high amount for use of their licenses. A typical example of this is Anti-virus software. Because consumers need to be able to trust their anti-virus software they are willing to pay good money for an established brand and name they have heard of.

On the contrary to this, providers of other professional software services have now realized that consumers enjoy using software for free and it is possible to get basic free accounting software, free illustration packages and of course very many free games and time management applications for both the PC and the mobile environment.

With some free software, users are simply treated to a basic working version for their personal use. The trick for the software companies to draw in an income from new customers is to offer a support system for a small monthly fee. This is where software becomes a service. It’s not just about having the software to use, it’s about having a person behind the application who can help you to make the most of the programme and be on hand in case anything goes wrong. Another way the software companies are making money is to offer Premium upgrades on their tools. So if a consumer likes a software tool they have been using to help manage their business accounts, they can purchase the programme in full to roll it out amongst all of their staff.

The saying “there’s an app for that” is more true than ever. It’s exciting to think what software can do for us in the future as the line between real and virtual simulated life becomes more and more blurred.

Katie Sykes is a Digital Marketing professional who enjoys using a variety of different software to manage her work flow. Katie advises on small business SEO and time management.

Adopt Mobile Working Patterns with Virtual Desktops

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Cloud-based IT solutions are transforming the traditional workplace and enable staff to adopt mobile working patterns. The ability to access business data and software applications through remotely hosted virtual desktops means you no longer have to physically be in the office to keep your organization moving.

Bespoke IT network experts can provide your company with a virtual desktop that not only maintains productivity but remains protected from outside threats. Essentially, you won’t have to worry about your valuable information becoming damaged or compromised thanks to the latest technology.

The Complete Solution

What difference would it make to your business if employees had the freedom to work anywhere, access information remotely and turn any location into an extension of their own personal office?

These are the questions anyone considering utilizing virtual desktops should consider. The potential rewards for your company could be significant as physical limitations are removed and staff in different areas is given the ability to work seamlessly together.

If you’re ready to do serious business then virtual desktops are a smart option. Sales teams, global offices and enterprise are just some of the main beneficiaries. Instead of standing still, your team can remain active and on the move with complete access to company data wherever they may be. If the need arise, the best IT solutions providers are also on hand to deliver full system support for any queries you may have.

This peace of mind is further enhanced by the use of disaster recovery, included as standard by quality IT firms. Information held in data centers could come under attack from hackers or other malicious threats so it’s essential to have safeguards in place. Strict security protocols mean that your data is kept protected and available 24 hours a day. In addition, a virtual desktop means that you don’t need to invest in your own expensive servers or build a costly computer room to house equipment.

Fixed, scalable pricing based on per user, per month also ensures that you’re well aware of much you’ll be paying.

Indeed, opting for a virtual desktop also has the added benefit of saving money on Microsoft Office Suite packages as all employees can access software remotely. Plus, the best providers will also offer Microsoft Exchange for email.

This flexibility extends to be able to personalize your desktop with the applications you require in a Windows 7 environment. Any Windows application you need can also be installed.

If you want your business, sales teams, home workers or managers to be able to access company information wherever they are across the globe then arrange for your own virtual desktop to be installed today. Bespoke IT solutions experts will be happy to explain and demonstrate the technology alongside other cloud-based systems.

Competition in the modern business world is fierce and virtual desktops allow you to stay ahead of your rivals and maintain productivity whilst having the reassurance that your valuable information is secure.

About Author : Kristina Louis is a freelance content writer by profession.She writes article on behalf of virtual desktops virtual desktops. Gadgets and Internet technology are her topic of interest and she find immense pleasure in writing article on Internet technology.

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How to Run a Laptop Cheaply

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Laptops often prove somewhat of a necessity in the modern world. Conventionally used as portable alternatives to desktop PCs, these days they are often purchased instead of the latter in order to provide the best of both worlds. However, as with any PC they can prove expensive to run, especially if something goes wrong. Not to worry, however, for this guide aims to offer you tips on how to look after your laptop for less (however, if you don’t have a laptop already then you may want to look at a different article in order to help you accrue the funds to get one).

Productivity software

If you’re using a Windows PC and need a word processor, spreadsheet program or similar, then your immediate response is likely to be to turn to Microsoft Office. However, do remember that there are alternatives on offer. One of the most popular of these is OpenOffice, which has programs equivalent to all of those in Microsoft Office. Additionally, OpenOffice is available for a variety of operating systems beyond Windows, including Mac OS X, Linux and UNIX. Why shell out for expensive productivity software when you can get something just as good for free?

Servicing

Laptops have a habit of going wrong, and so this is where a lot of people often lose money when maintaining one. However, if you ask around you might be surprised at who has a hidden knack with computers in your friend group; they may even be able to have a look at your laptop for free (though you might want to give them something for their trouble). If you can’t find anyone who’ll help you with your laptop problems for free then be savvy in your choice of servicing outlet; personal recommendations and knowing at least a little bit about computers can help you avoid being overcharged.

laptops (Photo credit: _escalade328s_)

Don’t let it get stolen!

This may seem an obvious one, but a lot of people neglect a variety of seemingly simple things that in turn put their laptop and other portable electrical items at serious risk of theft. Replacing a laptop is no mean financial feat, and often you also lose irreparable data in the process. As with anything that a passing person might decide they’d like to steal off you, don’t advertise the fact that you’re carrying a laptop around with you if you can help it. Carrying a purpose-made laptop bag, for example, is a dead giveaway, whereas transporting in a more standard rucksack is far more subtle.

Vincent Vance usually writes for Vanquis Ltd, but today is instead trying to stop you from making the same mistakes with your laptop as he did.

Transitioning To Mac Systems

Mac computer systems have normally been known to be faster in their processing. Macintosh systems are known for their consistency and also end user friendliness. The top cause of this stability as well as remarkable functionality is the relentless initiatives of Apple to work through the problems parts prior to releasing their operating systems formally. Their own initiatives are making Macintosh devices the best option for pc owners. The Macintosh OS Leopard has been built to offer the users a greatly good and strong platform. Going by praises of any Mac review, you would learn that this specific product hardly ever disappoints its owners if utilized with proper care and proper routine maintenance. 

Another commendable capability that any Mac product gives to its owners is the sound as well as steady operating-system making it a good alternative, each for individual and official usage. Macintosh system also comes with a variety of really effective software programs including iChat, iLife, Safari as well as other superb programs making it really interesting for an average pc user. As per most Mac software reviews, the famous web browser from Apple company known as “Safari” is easily the quickest browser obtainable in the Internet these days. 

Image via Wikipedia

As mentioned earlier, Macintosh OS is pleasant and reliable. It allows the owners of various other tools like MS Windows to switch to this specific system without much inconvenience. The Bootcamp feature in Mac system lets any kind of addicted Windows user to understand the way of utilizing the system of Mac with utmost convenience. What’s best of all is the fact that a Macintosh computer system operator can get pleasure from all the features of MS Windows whilst working on the OS Leopard. The Macintosh operators may install Microsoft Windows on their own Mac machine once they deploy virtual computer programs like Parallel Desktop or VMware fusion for Macintosh to operate Microsoft Windows on their Macintosh devices. 

Image via Wikipedia

MS Windows operators additionally find it invaluable since most of Windows software applications are nowadays built to be backed for numerous systems and hence can also be found for Macintosh platform. A Microsoft operator, that has lately moved to Macintosh system, can be glad to be aware that these people may now take advantage of the interface of applications like Microsoft Office on Mac device just as these people are accustomed to experience on Windows. Yet another extraordinary facility that is included with this feature is that any kind of data files that have been created in Microsoft Office could be edited as well as personalized within the Macintosh system without needing to create these from start. 

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Macintosh is definitely reliable as well as risk-free machine. Since Apple alone supplies the equipment as well as application for the machines, hence it's utterly hard for any Trojans or infected applications to break into the Macintosh computer through the back-door. Mac computers are made in an efficient manner to be able to self-protect on their own from the complex glitches of all sorts, thus leading them to be normally very secure as well as dependable to utilize. A Macintosh operator doesn't need to fear of different viruses and malwares invading the computer system, as is the situation with virtually all other operating systems present in the marketplace.

Frederic is freelancer, flash templates designer, who is interested in Macintosh computers and music.

The Microsoft Word 2007 Basic Menu Bar

Microsoft Office 2007 is a Windows version of the Microsoft Office System, Microsoft's productivity suite. Formerly known as Office 12 in the initial stages of its beta cycle, it was released to volume license customers on November 30, 2006 and made available to retail customers on January 30, 2007. These are, respectively, the same dates Windows Vista was released to volume licensing and retail customers.

Office 2007 also includes new applications and server-side tools. Chief among these is Groove, a collaboration and communication suite for smaller businesses, which was originally developed by Groove Networks before being acquired by Microsoft in 2005. Also included is Office SharePoint Server 2007, a major revision to the server platform for Office applications, which supports "Excel Services", a client-server architecture for supporting Excel workbooks that are shared in real time between multiple machines, and are also viewable and editable through a web page.

The Ribbon, a panel that houses a fixed arrangement of command buttons and icons, organizes commands as a set of tabs, each grouping relevant commands. The Ribbon is present in Microsoft Word 2007, Excel 2007, PowerPoint 2007, Access 2007 and some Outlook 2007 windows. The Ribbon is not user customizable in Office 2007. Each application has a different set of tabs which expose the functionality that application offers. For example, while Excel has a tab for the graphing capabilities, Word does not; instead it has tabs to control the formatting of a text document. Within each tab, various related options may be grouped together.

The following pictures displayed below are the most basic menu bar or ribbon for the MS Word 2007 version.

The Home menu or Ribbon bar contains the basic formatting options from the font styles, color, and size. It also have the paragraph formatting like left, right, center and justify alignment.

Home Menu or Ribbon Bar

Next we have the Insert menu, the function of the this menu is to allow object such as picture to be inserted into the document via several method.This menu can be used to add picture, link, data sheet, graphs and many more into your document.

Insert Menu

The page layout menu is where we fix how the page size, orientation, margin or paper type of a document. By specifying those setting we can concentrate on creating the documents itself without worrying on its appearances.

Page Layout Menu

The reference menu or ribbon is used to create table of contents and insert reference point on the documents. Just as aptly name this is where all the needed reference for each document is inserted or created.

Reference Menu

The mailing menu or ribbon is where the document for mass mailing is being setup. Mass mailing is a lot easy if these feature is used and properly setup.

Mailing Menu

During the late 1990s and early 2000s, the default Word document format (.DOC) became a de facto standard of document file formats for Microsoft Office users. Though usually just referred to as "Word Document Format", this term refers primarily to the range of formats used by default in Word version 97-2003.

Word document files by using the Word 97-2003 Binary File Format implement OLE (Object Linking and Embedding) structured storage to manage the structure of their file format. OLE behaves rather like a conventional hard drive file system and is made up of several key components. Each Word document is composed of so-called "big blocks" which are almost always 512-byte chunks; hence a Word document's file size will in most cases be a multiple of 512.

"Storages" are analogues of the directory on a disk drive, and point to other storages or "streams" which are similar to files on a disk. The text in a Word document is always contained in the "WordDocument" stream. The first big block in a Word document, known as the "header" block, provides important information as to the location of the major data structures in the document. "Property storages" provide metadata about the storages and streams in a doc file, such as where it begins and its name and so forth. The "File information block" contains information about where the text in a Word document starts, ends, what version of Word created the document and other attributes.

Computer 101: File format converter for Microsoft Office 2003.

By these days most of use is using MS Office 2007 version in our workplace but in our home we might still be using the old reliable MS Office 2003 version. Now if we create a document in MS Office 2003 in our home and later when we got into our workplace we open the document in MS Office 2007 there should be now problem at all. But if save it using the MS Office 2007 template or formatting styles then when we got home we try to open it again using the old MS Office 2003, we would assume that it will be open again in no time. But when we double click the document to open it in the MS Office 2003 version it would not open anymore. The reason for this is that the document styles and formatting information between these two Office suites is completely different. Since the MS Office 2007 version has more feature that the older Ms Office 2003.

How do we solve this kind of problem? How can one open a document created in MS Office 2007 when using a MS Office 2003 version? Well there two solution for this problem. The first is get a new MS Office 2007 version and upgrade the old MS Office 2003, which would cost more. Or use the second solution of installing a File format converter on your old MS Office 2003, to help it easily open document created in the MS Office 2007. I think every body would choose the second option since it not cost any penny to do and it is very to install it on your computer. But first we must download the Fileformatconveretre.exe from the internet so that we can have it installed in our computer. The file format converter add-on is very easy to locate in the internet and is very easy to download. The file size of the utility is just 37 MB. To download a copy of the converter just go to the Microsoft website or in the internet type the name of the utility in your search engine and it will display link on how to find and download the utility.

Once we have downloaded it, we can now begin to install it on our computer. Just double click the icon to begin the installation process. Read and follow the instruction for the installation. After successfully installing the utility, we can now test whether the file format converter works. Look for a document created in the MS Office 2007. What to look for a document created and save in MS Office 2007 version? Well first the icon for the Ms Office 2007 version is different from the old version. Also the document extension is slightly different from the old, whereas the old document extension for MS Word 2003 is filename.doc while the new extension for the MS Office 2007 is filename.docx yup there is an X added at the last part of the file-name extension. So look for that file type and double click to launch it in Ms Office 2003. We can verify that the file format converter utility is working if a dialog box will appear saying file format converting and then the document has been able to open successfully in the MS Office 2003 version.

I mean we can read the file content correctly instead of different characters being displayed on the content of the document to which we cannot seems to understand. By installing the utility on the old Ms Office 2003, we gave it the capability to open document created in the MS Office 207 version.