Microsoft's new Word has smart features but one big headache

Article Abstract:

Microsoft's Word 97 is a good update of a solid product, but it creates files that older versions of the program are unable to read without special translation software, a spectacular flaw. Word 97 can read documents created on older versions. The program requires many resources, including a minimum of 8MB of memory and some 46MB of hard disk space. The program's best new features include its ability to verify syntax and grammar as users type. Although the program occasionally suggests poor substitutions for typed phrases, it does identify and change typical mistakes such as 'there' and 'their.' The AutoCorrect feature is very helpful, since it corrects misspellings and typos as they occur and can even correct phrases. Another handy feature completes common words after users enter the first four letters. The 'assistant,' which provides tips and help, is unnecessarily obtrusive and distracting, and it fails to recognize work patterns and past actions.

Microsoft Word 97 (Word processing software)

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Word for Windows 95 helps sloppy writers polish their prose

Article Abstract:

Microsoft's new $100 Word for Windows 95 offers outstanding tools that help the serious writer improve productivity and quality, which makes Word for Windows 95 the best word processing package available. The application is designed specifically for Windows 95, and Microsoft does not plan to issue any more versions of Word for Windows 3.x, so users who want the new features must upgrade their systems. While upgrading to Windows 95 can be costly, the heavy user of word processing software will want to make the change. The application requires at least a 486-based machine with 8MB of RAM and a large hard drive. New features in Word for Windows 95 include the AutoFormat tool, which allows type written commands to be changed into typography. Another new feature is the automatic spell-checking feature, which flags typos while the word is being typed. The Windows 95 platform allows users to use long, English-based file names.

Microsoft Word for Windows 95 7.0 (Word processing software)

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Getting a firm grip on words can entail 'secret handshake'

Article Abstract:

XyQuest Inc's Signature word processing software package is a poor attempt to add Microsoft Windows features to an MS DOS-based program. XyQuest was hoping to create a DOS-based word processor that non-technical people would feel more comfortable with than WordPerfect Corp's best-selling WordPerfect. WordPerfect is a prime example of difficult-to-use software; it gives no indications of how to activate functions, and typeface and text styles do not appear on the screen. Signature was intended as a more agreeable alternative. However, Signature's menus are confusing and complex, and using the mouse is frustrating and awkward. The graphical display mode shows text in the chosen font, but it appears misshapen and patchy and slows the program drastically. Signature is based on XyQuest's challenging XyWrite word processing software, and the highly technical user manuals reveal their origins with co-developer IBM.

GUI, Graphical user interfaces, User-Friendliness, XYQUEST Inc., Signature (Word processing software)

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