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Freeware suite of office applications and a Web browser

Freeware suite of office applications and a Web browser

Vote: (76 votes)

Program license: Free

Developer: IBM

Version: 3.0.1

Works under: Windows

Vote:

Program license

(76 votes)

Free

Developer

Version

IBM

3.0.1

Works under:

Windows

Pros

  • 100 percent free
  • easy to use
  • quick conversions to PDF format
  • password safety systems for files

Cons

  • incomplete version compared to similar softwares
  • unable to import certain visual elements

Word processors have long been a crucial part of business, home and school life. Life has changed unalterably since we began to rely on them. Word processing suites have truly changed our lives for the better. Software continued to improve and we saw the beginning of open source versions of the same, or very similar, software. Many different programming companies have brought forth their version of the software. The latest of these is IBM's first attempt: IBM Lotus Symphony. Like some of its predecessors, it too is completely free to the public. The difference between IBM's software, however, is that it the first to exist in a format that doesn't require an internet connection. That's right, IBM's software that is not contingent on the reliability of a device's internet connection.

The Lotus Symphony Suite has an array of different services that come with the package download. From the central, home interface, users can choose one of three different options for open use. Each option opens to a separate app where the services can be freely used. Users will have access to IBM Lotus' spreadsheet, presentation, and word processing programs. Upon choosing a type of project, the user will be presented with the option of opening an existing project or starting a new project. Upon starting a new project, the user can set his or her customization before opening the project.

One awesome advantage of this suite is that there is no limit to the number of projects that you can have open at any given time. Additionally, navigation between the different documents is simple. The top portion of the tool bar is devoted to navigating between each open document.

Of course this software comes equipped with all of the necessary extras that any word processor should come with. Users will have access to spell checker and the option to insert charts and tables. There is also a decently sized set of pre-existing templates to make starting new projects easy. Though, ultimately, it doesn't possess the wide array of bells and whistles that more expensive options come with, it seamlessly offers a sufficient amount of options for the average user.

We're excited to see this newest open-source productivity solution hit the market. IBM's new software will undoubtedly see excellent results and high user rates. It will definitely drive the market forward and push other companies to rival its accessibility and singularity in the marketplace. This is also a huge step forward for IBM and hopefully the beginning of a new start for the lesser known company.

Pros

  • 100 percent free
  • easy to use
  • quick conversions to PDF format
  • password safety systems for files

Cons

  • incomplete version compared to similar softwares
  • unable to import certain visual elements

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