Documenting a Day

Documenting a Day

 With each application, from word to presentation software, the more complex the functions become. When looking at these office-based applications, Microsoft paves the way with the market's best and most used applications. Some believe that there is too much going on (complex) in Microsoft word. Especially compared to applications like Notepad. Each application has the benefits that make it shine over its other predecessor applications; however, sometimes, the functionality inside one can be seen in other applications.  

 Every application has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, Microsoft Word has plenty of advantages over other similar applications such as Notepad because it gives users the option to change font style and size, adjust margins, add images, hyperlinks, and way more. This is because of the software advantages word processing provides; according to Vahid & Lysecky, applications like Notepad are text files that only text does not have any formatting information(2017). Both applications have the advantage of being able to write text without the need for the internet. Clearly, Notepad has many disadvantages considering it cannot nearly do what Microsoft word can do. However, that does not mean Microsoft Word does not have any disadvantages. For starters, in my opinion, Microsoft Word has too much functionality that can cause most users confusion due to its overall complexity. The second is cost; it is pretty expensive if you are not provided a subscription by work or school. Finally, another disadvantage is that features and overall functionality can get changed due to its constantly growing nature.  

Another application to look at for advantages and disadvantages is spreadsheets, more specifically Excel. In the textbook reading, Vahid & Lysecky describes spreadsheet applications as "representing tables of data like text or numbers, for using formulas to calculate data from other data (like sums or averages), and for creating graphical charts from data" (2017, p.5.2). Some advantages of spreadsheets are setting a formula that allows users to create different data analysis projects, such as expense reports, or keeping track of taxes/deductions. Overall the ability to set formulas can save a person hours instead of having to do manual calculations. The disadvantage of spreadsheets is that formulas are inputted by humans, which can translate to human errors. Another disadvantage is using it in the workplace and sharing the file to allow multiple users to edit. There is no way to know if someone else is actively editing or changing something, which makes it generally hard to use on a large scale.  

The Last application presented is PowerPoint Presentation, which also has its advantages and disadvantages. Presentation software allows users to create custom slideshows of text and graphics combined with different transitions and animations. A slide show consists of multiple individual slides; according to Vahid & Lysecky, the purpose is to provide an audience visualize information (2017). Advantages of presentation software such as PowerPoint by Microsoft are editing tools, animation tools, and presentation tools to give users the ability to create unique, eye-catching slides to catch an audience's attention. In contrast, the disadvantages are primarily with the overwhelming capabilities of different animations, transitions, and other personalizing functions that create endless possibilities.  

In my opinion, this assignment, Microsoft word, was the most appropriate for documenting the information about my day. Each application has its benefits, as I mentioned above. However, Excel and PowerPoint are overkill. I say this because as far as using excel, which is primarily used for its calculation abilities, we are dealing with simple math and not a large quantity of numbers/data. In all reality, with Microsoft Word, I could easily make a chart similar to excel, just adding my own calculations. I could have added images just as we did for the PowerPoint presentation without the transitions and animations. Excel is excellent for calculations-based projects that require extensive calculations such as accounting or data forecasting, aka statistics. Microsoft word is great for preparing emails before sending, writing letters, or even essays; this list can go on forever. Finally, PowerPoint presentation software is the best way to bring compelling visual projects into the workplace to help with new hire training, report financials, or conduct end-of-the-year or quarterly reviews.  

 

 

 

References:  

Vahid, F., & Lysecky, S. (2017). Computing technology for all. Retrieved from zybooks.zyante.com/