This Microsoft Package contains Word, Excel and Powerpoint at a Great Price
Written: Jul 18 '03 (Updated Jul 22 '03)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Significantly cheaper than other versions, has everything I need
Cons: Cost, if you are considering free internet downloads
The Bottom Line: This package provides hefty software for basic production needs at a great price.
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| modernmarvel's Full Review: Microsoft Office Office XP Standard for Students a... |
I just bought a new HP Pavilion computer and it didn't come with any Microsoft productivity products. It did come with Wordperfect, but I could not open Word documents with the Wordperfect program. I wanted software that I could use to share documents and, since I will be teaching in the fall, I needed a program that enabled me to read papers students sent me.
I know there are free alternatives available on the Internet, but I wanted the standard to be sure that, when necessary, I could open and share documents without worrying about compatibility. When I first started shopping for this product, I saw a similar Microsoft suite combination for $350. Then, luckily, I came across this versions of the Microsoft package that contains everything I need but costs just over $100.
WHAT YOU GET:
You get three CDs that have:
Word: This is the word processor that many people use and, if you regularly exchange files with other people, you will need Word or another compatible program. You can write documents, prepare envelopes and coordinate mailings.
Excel: This is a spreadsheet program but it also has general accounting ledgers, charts and it can create invoices.
Powerpoint: This program creates slides for presentations or attachments for reports.
Outlook: You can use outlook to manage your email, documents, calendar. I like the part that allows you to enter phone, address and contact information.
This package also comes with a 3rd CD that contains a tutorial program to teach you how to use the Microsoft software. You don't need to install this disk if you don't need the tutorial.
A 200 page book is also included to with detailed information on how to use each program. I have already found this book to be a handy reference. While not worth $100, this is something you wouldn't get with free software from the Internet.
SOFTWARE REVIEW
I have been using all of these programs for years and find them easy to use, relatively bug-free and full of features that are helpful and make life easier. I like the onscreen help for each program although the manual is handy to have too.
I considered other programs that are free or cheaper than this suite. However these Microsoft programs really are functional and reliable. This package is well worth the $100 I paid although I would have to think twice at $350.
The software runs easily on my computer. I haven't had any crashes, although my computer is new and has 512 MB of memory, which is more than double the recommendation on the software package.
HOW TO INSTALL
Install was super easy and took less than 5 minutes. You just insert the CDs and follow easy on screen instructions. The only slight pain is that you have to enter a 25 digit product key but it wasn't too bad.
SYSTEM COMPATIBILITY
This software is designed for use with Windows XP, 2000, ME, 98, Windows NT.
The packaging recommends at least the following:
PC with pentium 133MHz;
210 MB of available hard disk space with 155 MB where the operating system is installed;
CD-ROM drive;
Super VGA (800x600) or higher resolution; and a
Mouse.
This program has speech recognition for the disabled however, the computer will need additional features including a microphone and more memory.
CUSTOMER SUPPORT
There is customer support at www.microsoft.com/support/ and at (425) 635-7056. I found the install so easy that I haven't needed support.
WHO CAN BUY IT
According to the packaging the following people are eligible to buy this package: full or part-time students, home-schooled students and full or part-time faculty of accredited educational institutions. I am not sure how this is enforced. I bought mine at Amazon.com and it did not question my student / teacher status.
WHERE I PURCHASED IT
I got this at Amazon.com. It qualified for free shipping and cost about $110. (My review of Amazon.com is at: http://www.epinions.com/content_106525789828)
CAN IT BE UPGRADED?
I have seen other reviews that say this program can't be upgraded. There is nothing in my packaging or the enclosed manual that says my version can't be upgraded. However, if this is an issue for you, you should investigate further.
FINAL RECOMMENDATION
I think this is a great value for the money. All of the attached programs are easy to use and allow you to share documents with other people. This suite of products was a great value at $110.
Recommended:
Yes
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modernmarvel
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