AboutJean Mornard Expertise I am happy to answer questions about formatting and layout, mail merge, tables, graphics, tracking changes, outlining, and more. I currently use Word 2007, but I can also answer many questions about Word 2003.
Experience I have worked professionally on MS Word since 1992 when v2.0 was launched. For one employer, I created several macros to address the issues of translating a document from a Sun-based desktop publisher to Word and then from Word to ASCII (a VERY specific application). I have created mail merge letters and labels, fliers and brochures, concert programs, investment company documents, large running tables, along with the more ordinary word processing documents.
Education/Credentials B.A from the University of Minnesota
Participated in several work-required training sessions on the entire MS Office Suite, the latest being on the transition between Office 2003 and Office 2007. I have also conducted training sessions on Word and Excel within my work setting.
Question Hello: I need to decide if I should upgrade to Word 2007 from 2003, which I am most comfortable with. I tried 2007 (free) for a few days and didn't feel comfortable, as there was much I didn't know how to do in that program. For someone who frequently handles variety of documents, what would you say are the main advantages that Word 2007 offers? Are they worth the $ cost of the program and the time/effort investment it will take to learn to use it properly? I have a new computer (64-bit) with Vista.
Answer Hi Lily,
The transition from 2003 to 2007 is not an easy one. I've been using 2007 for about a year now and there are still many things that I don't know how to do. However, that having been said, I actually like the new version better. It's a lot more visual and they've pulled some of the menu options up onto the "Ribbon," as they call the new toolbar, making them a little easier to find (once you know where to look). There are also some new formatting features that are kind of fun to use. Ultimately, I think it really comes down to personal choice. I imagine that Microsoft will continue to support 2003 for quite some time so it's not imperative to change, and if you don't want to have to face that steep learning curve, I'd say stick with 2003 so long as it works and plays well with Vista. At the very least, you can wait until a convenient time to switch.
Feel free to follow up with any more specific questions you might have. I hope this helps a little!
About Microsoft Word
This topic answers questions related to Microsoft Word stand-alone or Mircrosoft Office Word including Word 2003, Word 2007, Office 2000, and Office XP. You can get Word help on formatting text, tables, tabs, fonts, styles, general Word layouts, bullets, headings, and outlines, using templates, toolbar modifications, and using Track Changes. You may also find tips on linking Word and Excel embedded objects including charts. This site does not provide a general Word tutorial nor the basics of using a word processor. It provides specific answers to using Microsoft Word only. If you do not see your Word question answered in this area then please ask a Word question here
