Word processing applications in business

Word processing software helps you manipulate a text document and create or edit a text document.

A quality word processing software can also provide output options such as printing or exporting a text document into other formats.

Without word processing software, you would have difficulty processing paragraphs, pages, and even papers.

Not many people know that early word processing software was standalone devices, but word processors come as lightweight software that’s easy to install with technological advancements.

Another great advantage of word processing software is that it allows you to store documents electronically, display them across screens, or fully modify documents before printing them.

Even though word processing software isn’t complex to learn, it might take a bit of time to learn how to take full advantage of the software with so many functions.

Also, keep in mind that some word processing software comes from the office bundle that includes other processing software.

In this article, you’ll learn more about word processing software and see 15 of the best examples.

Whether you’re a writer, editor, or only need quality word processing software to prepare your documents pre-printing, at least one of these 15 software will be a good pick!

Even though most word processing software has similar features and offers similar benefits, the small but significant differences between these word processing software examples can make a huge difference for personal use.

1. Microsoft Word

The most known word processing software is Microsoft Word, and chances are high you’ve used it at least on one occasion to process or create text documents.

Word is the most known word processing software because the creator of Windows creates it and it often comes integrated with the Windows operating system.

However, Word is also known for the benefits it offers. Improved search and navigational experience combined with the ability to work with others simultaneously are just some of the benefits.

Along with that, Word gives you the ability to access, share, and work on your documents from almost anywhere.

With plenty of options to create, edit, and process text, Word also has additional visual effects, turning text into diagrams, and combining visual aspects into text documents.

Instant help when creating documents is another great integration that especially helps writers. Exporting and having document flexibility is helpful when producing specific documents for your studies or work, and it’s just one of many benefits of Word.

2. iWork Pages

iWork Pages is a must-have word processing software for Apple users. Even though Microsoft Word is available for macOS, iWork is a great native alternative that helps Apple users process, create, and work with word documents.

iWork Pages was previously known as AppleWorks, and it is part of the official Apple iWork suite.

Not only Pages can help you create documents, but they can also help you to collaborate with others efficiently, create animated documents from your data, and even build interactive charts from your text.

What’s great about Pages is that it comes with built-in help and sample formulas, so you don’t always have to create a document from scratch. Instead, you can use templates or benefit from function suggestions to improve the way you work.

With over 30 spreadsheet templates, you won’t have to create text documents from scratch unless you enjoy creating your work from scratch. Templates can help you spend less time formatting and creating the basics of your document and yet leave you with more time to focus on your text.

3. OpenOffice Writer

Among the paid word processing software, there are a couple of free gems such as OpenOffice.

OpenOffice is a free and open productivity suite that includes Writer, the perfect software for word processing.

Whether you’re trying to draft a quick letter or working on complex text documents (maybe even writing a book), the writer is a reliable and fully equipped word processing software to handle all needed tasks.

What’s great about Writer is that it is very easy to use, so you won’t have to spend hours learning the ins and outs of the software to take full advantage of it.

Instead, you will be able to focus on producing documents of all types and letting Writer help you along the way.

With built-in features such as AutoCorrect or AutoComplete, you can quickly write your documents without having to worry about making mistakes.

Along with these two features, OpenOffice Writer comes with a table of contents, references, multi-page display, and notes to help you annotate and review documents, as well as create well-structured text documents.

Lastly, exporting isn’t going to be a problem since Writer can help you export your text document into other formats such as HTML, PDF, or even .odt.

Also, keep in mind that OpenOffice provides templates you can download and use with Writer to make your drafts easier.

4. WordPerfect

WordPerfect is described as the Microsoft Office alternative. It is an all-in-one suite that focuses on productivity and efficiency when working with digital documents (especially text documents).

Inside the WordPerfect Office, you will have access to a neat and efficient word processor that can help you quickly draft new documents, create letters or brochures, write resumes, and even start writing a book.

What’s so special about WordPerfect is that it supports collaboration with about 60 file formats, so you can import and export documents from any third-party software.

With the help of Reveal Codes, WordPerfect provides seamless formatting after you import documents from any source.

And if you’re looking to “spice up” your text documents, you can do so easily with the help of built-in PDF forms into this powerful and versatile word processing software.

5. FocusWriter

If you spend a lot of time writing documents in your word processing software, and yet you find it hard to concentrate and focus on the words, FocusWriter is a great pick.

FocusWriter is a very simple word processing software that utilizes a versatile interface hidden away from the most important part of the software. This way, you can focus on the page and text, and whenever you need to use any integrated feature, all you have to do is swipe your cursor across the edges to open the hidden menu.

With integrated features such as timers, alarms, daily goals, fully customizable themes, and even the ability to use typewriter sound effects, this word processing software will help you stay on track and get things done.

Along with these features, FocusWriter has optional features such as live statistics, spell-checking, and even the ability to use FocusWriter in 20 different languages.

These features aim to improve the user experience and make word processing tasks fun and more productive since you can set your own goals.

This is a word processing software that adds improved features that aren’t very common among its competitors.

6. LibreOffice Writer

When you are a very organized person and need word processing software that will match this, LibreOffice Writer is worth trying.

LibreOffice Writer is a modern word processing software that ensures you can edit any document quickly with the help of integrated features.

Therefore, Writer is good enough for doing quick and simple edits. Still, it’s also more than enough to finish books, edit many content pages, add diagrams, and even feature indexes into your documents.

The user interface is very neat and even though there are many features they’re hidden away so you can focus on the most important aspect of word processing: the text.

7. AbiWord

When you require a very similar word processing software to Word, and yet you’re on a budget, AbiWord is a good choice.

AbiWord is compatible with the latest operating systems and interface-wise, it is very similar to Microsoft Word. Even though it’s not the “prettiest” word processing software, it has everything you might need to get the work done efficiently, and it won’t cost you a penny.

With compatibility to work with all standard text documents, AbiWord also allows you to share your documents with others easily or even merge your letters directly with your email.

Even though AbiWord might not have all features other word processing software include, AbiWord is built on the extensible plugin architecture, so you can always find plugins to include features you might be missing.

On top of that, I should mention that AbiWord is available in 30 different languages, and it is still getting updates so that you won’t be relying on an outdated version.

8. WPS Word

WPS offers a suite similar to Microsoft Office that includes three components: the Word, Excel, and Presentation.

Word is a word processing software that is highly compatible with almost all compatible document formats, and it is even compatible with all operations systems.

Creating documents from scratch with Word is very simple, and yet with standard formatting tools everyone is familiar with, editing documents is even easier.

On top of that, Word includes many extras that are rarely found in other word processing software, such as hundreds of document templates. Therefore, if you don’t feel like creating documents from scratch, basing your documents on pre-existing templates can save you a lot of time and work.

Combining media with text is highly possible, and viewing multiple documents simultaneously improves efficiency when working with multiple documents.

With collaboration tools, password protection for chosen documents, and automatic spell-checking tools, you can easily get your work done without worrying about accuracy.

9. Polaris Docs

Polaris Office is a combination of tools that includes Docs, a highly versatile version that’s very similar to a combination of Microsoft Word and Google Docs.

It’s a very versatile word processing software that allows you to work on your documents wherever you are.

Not only is it available as computer software, but it also has a dedicated web browser version and even the app version suitable for Android and iOS smartphones.

Collaboration is guaranteed with such versatility, and when it comes down to getting the work done, Polaris Docs supports all types of documents, including sheets, slides, and more.

Saved documents can be worked on in groups, meaning that more than one person can edit the document in real-time. And if you ever decide to collaborate on a document with someone, you can invite them with a link and keep the communication open with an integrated chat in the Polaris Docs.

Feature-wise, Polaris Docs is packed with the most standard features you would expect from a word processing software, and yet the main improvement is the way you can collaborate with others and work on the same document in real-time.

10. Writemonkey

If you search for a word processing document that will leave you on your own with your words and yet will hide all functionalities in a very minimalistic and simple interface, Writemonkey makes a great choice.

Writemonkey might look like a coding interface at first, but it is a stripped-down word processing software that helps you focus on your writing.

Of course, Writemonkey is also ideal for making quick edits and even reading.

This is probably one of the lightest and smallest word processing software that is very easy to install and even easier to get used to.

What’s also great is that you have full control over the interface to customize it to your needs. On top of that, you can set timed writing or even feature a visual progress bar to make your writing work feel like a breeze.

And if you ever end up missing something in Writemonkey, you can always introduce third-party upgrades to this word processing software via plugins.

11. Dropbox Paper

When you need a versatile, reliable, and quick word processing software that’s perhaps web-based, Dropbox Paper is worth considering.

Dropbox Paper is a lightweight web-based word processing software that allows simple editing and collaboration between teams.

With Dropbox Paper, you can create documents from scratch or import existing documents to easily track any edits or changes made by your team members. On top of that, with this light word processing software, you can keep everything organized, ensure feedback is properly given, and even improve your documents.

You can do almost everything in Dropbox Paper that you would do in other word processing software. However, Paper can also serve as a co-editing software.

Whether you’re trying to improve communication in your team, improve collaboration between team members, or you’re writing a book with your partner, Paper is the place to stay productive, organized, and efficient.

12. Scribus

If you require professional word processing software to handle your business/work documents or edit and prepare your book for publishing, Scribus is a great choice.

Even though it’s a bit different from standard word processing software, Scribus allows you to choose one of the designed layouts, set your typesetting, and even improve your written documents with professional-looking quality images.

With Scribus, you can also create animations that you can place directly inside your document, or you can turn your text documents into interactive PDF presentations.

On top of that, the creation of forms or questionnaires is very simple. With OpenType support, you can now edit your existing documents with advanced features such as advanced typography.

While Scribus is a great fit for simple editing and personal documents, it excels at creating magazine covers, newspaper front pages, preparing the books for publishing, and even manufacturing artwork.

It might not be the standard word processing software most people are looking for, but it will fit professional needs easily for a very fair price.

13. SoftMaker FreeOffice TextMaker

When you need a simple word processing software, SoftMaker FreeOffice is a great stepping stone that won’t cost you anything, and yet it includes almost everything you might need for personal or business use.

In the FreeOffice, you will get TextMaker included. TextMaker is a small but efficient word processing software that allows you to create all types of documents and edit existing documents that you can easily import.

What’s unique about TextMaker is that it doesn’t only focus on written documents. Instead, it also offers great features for processing words on graphics. Therefore, you can use TextMaker to create great text for your images, logos, or even banners.

With many different fonts, styles, and even wrapping options, TextMaker will make all your graphics look professional and attractive yet easy to read.

Since TextMaker can import almost all types of documents, you can also export your work in the most standard formats, such as Word DOC and DOCX. However, what’s also great about TextMaker is that it allows you to create PDF files from your documents.

You can even create an EPUB eBook with the help of TextMaker, which is a great feature, considering that SoftMaker provides the TextMaker for free.

14. Zoho Docs Writer

Zoho Docs Writer is a perfect example of an online word processing software that is easy to use and easy to access. Yet, in return, you will get very reliable and advanced features you can use on any of your documents.

The writer allows you to focus on your words in a distraction-free interface, yet you can work with others in an effortless document sharing.

With the most standard features, you would expect a word processing software packed in the interface you can access via the web browser and even get unlimited versions of your document.

These versions help you compare differences and find differences after collaboration with others.

One of the most advanced yet convenient features is publishing your documents directly (if you are a content creator).

If not, Zoho Docs Writer can help you electronically sign documents and even fill out PDF forms (or edit PDFs) without a problem.

15. Google Docs

Suppose you are not a fan of standalone word processing documents or don’t consider your computer reliable enough for your work. In that case, Google Docs is one of the most reliable web-based word processing software than most others in this space that you can get your hands on.

Along with the Sheets, Slides, and Forms, Docs allows you to not only create documents from scratch or import and edit existing documents, but it also allows you to store all your documents in the cloud for free.

You can easily access your documents from any device, as long as you’re signed in to your Google account, and yet you will easily get used to the functionality and features of the Docs.

On top of that, Docs is very flexible, so you can export them in many different formats just the way you can import documents. However, one thing to keep in mind is that you will need an internet connection at all times to access your documents or work on them.

Conclusion

Even though Microsoft Word is one of the most known word processing software globally, there is much other software that is as good and worth giving it a try.

One couldn’t do without quality word processing software, but you even get the chance to find the one that will fit your needs the most with so many choices.

Even though each one of these is similar, there are differences in the interface, functionality, and even features that the software provides.

With that being said, you can easily choose according to your needs and purpose, which I highly recommend!

As a freelance writer, I spend most of my work hours staring at a word processing application. There are so many writing apps these days, but most of us go with the default options we grew up with or that our employers prefer. As such, I was a dedicated Microsoft Word user for years. Over time, I’ve tried other writing apps and recently shifted almost everything away from Word to a new favorite. Here is a review of several top apps to write blog posts, books, and more.

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word is the default writing application for millions of office workers around the world. If you work at a big company, you probably use a Windows computer with the full Microsoft Office suite for much of your work. That office suite includes Microsoft Word. I have personally been using Word about as long as I’ve been using computers. With so many years of experience, many computer users are comfortable with Word and use it as their default writing app.

I was such a person for many years, until just last month. Since moving to a Mac a few years ago, I’ve happily paid for Word for Mac and used it daily. But I have found the Mac version to have more bugs, problems, and instabilities than the Windows version. Lately those bugs have led to app crashes, lost work, and big frustration. Now I do most of my work in the next app in the list. Word is available in both an online version and a desktop version.

Google Docs

Google Docs is a free, online only word processor, and is part of the Google Apps suite of online tools. Compared to Word, Docs can do just about everything. I have a few complaints, like no word count displayed by default. However, where Docs lacks in a few features, it makes up for with an extensive library of add-ons. Another big plus, you don’t have to remember to hit the save button. Your file is continuously saved, so if you accidentally spill a cup of coffee on your laptop as you type the last words in your novela, you can rest easy the file is safe and sound in your integrated Google Drive.

I have used a handful of add-ons for word counts, references, thesauruses, and other basic needs. Just click the Add-Ons menu, then “Get Add-Ons,” and you’ll quickly find plenty of useful tools to beef up your Docs experience, and a few fun ones that you’ll use even if you don’t really need them.

Pages

As a daily Mac user, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the word processor that came installed on my computer. If you have a Mac, you already have a free copy of Pages at your disposal. Windows users are not as lucky, and have to pay for Word if they are not happy with the default, scaled down one that comes pre-installed. Pages is an adequate writing program, and can certainly do the job for your blogging, book writing, and other word processing needs.

That said, I’ve only opened it a few times since buying my Macbook Pro in March 2015. It’s fine, but it never impressed me enough to draw me away from Word. In fact, I paid extra to get Word for Mac even though I had both Pages and Google Docs available for free. If you are used to the Mac ecosystem and have only used Macs for a long time, this is a good way to go as you probably already have the intuitive knowledge to navigate the menus and shortcuts. But if you grew up on Windows or prefer Google Docs, there isn’t enough here worth drawing you away.

Scriviner

A newer, more interesting word processing option is Scrivener. Scrivener comes from a smaller software company called Literature and Latte, and is ideal for those looking to write a book. It works for blog posts, but the true power comes from its extensive features for longer form writing projects. The program has a bit of a learning curve, but the included tutorials and other online courses will help you get up to speed quickly.

Once you are up and running, Scrivener offers powerful editing tools that are particularly useful for books. You can rearrange sections with drag and drop easy (think chapters), which makes slicing, dicing, planning, and layout of the project quick and easy. Unlike traditional word processors, which require lots of manual cutting and pasting to reorganize, with Scrivener it just takes a few moments.

Open Office Writer

Last but not least, the original free office suite has its own writing program: Open Office Writer. Open Office is a free, open source suite of writing, spreadsheet, presentation, and other programs just like you get from Microsoft Office, Google Apps, or the built in Apple office apps. It is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux computers, and its open source nature makes it open to a community of developers for updates, extensions, bug fixes, and more.

I’m normally a huge fan of open source software. After all, every website I run is built on WordPress, which is open source. However, I find that Writer and the rest of the Open Office suite leave something to be desired. This is an instance of getting what you pay for. It works fine for reading and basic needs, but if you plan to work with a word processor for your business, or for your entire living as I do, Writer just doesn’t cut it compared to the others. It is a little clunkier and more challenging to navigate. But on a tight budget, you can’t beat free.

Use what works for you

While Google Docs is the best option for my needs today, everyone’s needs are different. Some computer users are limited by what their employers provide. Freelancers may be limited by what their clients prefer. Others still just want to stick with what they know best. There is no right or wrong, just what’s right for your current needs. I flip back and forth between Word and Google Docs regularly, as I get files in various formats and have to send in specific formats on occasion. As long as you find what works best for your business, you can’t go wrong.

[Related: Why do You Want to Write a Book?]

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You may be a digital nomad, an office worker, a project manager, a journalist, or a businessman. No matter what you are, mobile word processing apps are a must-have as they allow you to view and edit on the go. Freepps.top selected cross-platform apps that proved to be the best during years of editorial practice.

Google Docs

Originally, Google Docs was created as a web word processing service, but soon, it got full-featured mobile applications for iOS, Android, and Chrome OS. It allows you to create documents from scratch or view and edit docs created on other devices. For this purpose, it has integrated Google Drive with 15GB of default free space, which is enough for hundreds of thousands of documents.

Google Docs supports all common fonts and editing commands, such as text alignment, creating automatic lists, and styles of headings. You can also insert links, images, and customizable tables. If you are in the role of an editor, select Suggest Changes. This mode allows you to edit a document by highlighting letters, words, and phrases suggesting to replace, fix, or delete them.

Due to Drive integration, you can work only online and have all files automatically saved and synchronized in the background mode. A seagull may steal your iPad on a beach, but everything you created is already in the cloud, available for continuation from where you stopped. Freepps.top recommends Google Docs as the simplest free cross-platform solution.

Microsoft Word

It’s hard to find a person who never used this word processor at school or university. It’s still the leading program since 1990. Microsoft established the most commonly used DOC and DOCX document formats as well.

Unlike the simplified Google Docs, Microsoft Word for smartphones and tablets provides you with a workspace that’s very similar to desktop. The entire editor is divided into standard tabs that you’re already familiar with, such as Home, Insert, Layout, Review, and View.

The app is perfectly optimized for both offline and online work. You can add contributors in a couple of taps and work together in real time. Add comments to exchange opinions or suggest changes, and easily track changes. Microsoft Word now supports sync via Google Drive, iCloud, and Dropbox, so you’re free to pick up the most comfortable.

MS Word still provides the widest range of editing options across all platforms. If you need more than basics, then it’s the perfect solution. Unlike the desktop version, you can use it for free with a free Microsoft account.

Zoho Writer

Zoho Writer is based on a similar model with Google Docs. There is a web service and mobile apps for iOS and Android, each of which allows you to create and edit documents both online and offline.

This app has a unique UI where all options are placed at the bottom of the screen so that you could control everything with just one thumb. You can scroll the navigation bar to find all the basics, such as alignment, inserting, styles, etc.

Similarly to Google Docs, you can select any word or paragraph in shared documents to comment on them or suggest changes. If you work on a project with a big team, this feature makes it possible to communicate within comment threads, like, and reply comments just like in any social networking app.

All changes are viewed in real time or uploaded from the offline mode immediately when you get a connection. Freepps.top suggests Zoho Writer as a good word processor for collaboration in big teams. It’s a simpler alternative to Word and similar app to Docs, but with a radically different interface.

Conclusion

If you’re committed to classics and need as many features as possible, then Microsoft Word would be the best choice. If you seek a simpler app for basic operations and convenient real-time collaboration, Google Docs and Zoho Writer will match your requirements.