The cost of using "paid for" software business has become prohibitive. Businesses and home users are focused on new and affordable channels.
Options include free software:
o StarOffice: the code base can be consulted at OpenOffice.org. It is the group for the coordination of the development of the product. OpenOffice.org runs on Windows, Linux, Solaris, and Mac.
o Version 5.2: improving the browser compatibility and later security and performance issues related to improvements.
o 602ProPC suite: free after registration, it is compatible to MS office.
o EasyOffice Freeware: for personal use, it has ten applications; a speech from text and Adobe PDF file creation program.
o GNOME Office: part of the free GNOME desktop environment for UNIX, several applications are stable to use, but in development.
o K Office: Runs on UNIX, Linux and FreeBSD, the suite has eight important applications.
o OpenOffice.org 1.0: based on StarOffice 5.2, it is a complete offer of the system of word processing, spreadsheet, program design, presentation program and writing of the equation. Compatible with Windows, Linux and Solaris.
o RagTime Solo: designed for publishing assisted by computer, built in functions include: word processing, spreadsheet and graphics. It's free for personal use.
o are Office 2002: works on Windows and Linux and has, text processing, spreadsheet, a drawing program and a presentation program.
These are some examples of the many options available. Most of the above are of high quality and free glitch. There is no initial fees or enhancement of pressures. Work more efficiently on older computers, which means, can break the cycle of constant forced upgrades.
Free software offers freedom to the user to execute them, copy, understanding, as well as modify the software. There are no restrictions, the programme can be adapted to the specific needs and can be distributed with the modifications/improvements. The term free means access to the source code and not just to pay the costs.
The benefits are:
o suppressant of capital spending.
o is evolving as users to provide feedback and valuable inputs.
o one can make changes. Go beyond the interface and to understand the workings. Many user group support is available.
o access to the source code increases the options for the user. Allows unrestricted use of the software, allows a free communication, as well as individual changes.
o no duty to the company. Freedom from dependency on multinational enterprises that create a monopoly.
o little or no maintenance and upgrade problems. Extends life of older hardware.
o many are fast, hardy, and reliable. This can be credited to the open system of development, implementation and development testing.
However, one must find if there are any disadvantages for the free software selected for use.
Take into consideration:
o the software is established?
o are updates, fixes and new features available for free?
o and support?
o how widely is the software used?
o is the complete and understandable documentation?
o y all maintenance fees?
o is a forum which allows problems?
Make a detailed study of your needs, then examine all options of the transaction, if a related organization uses a particular system discover their experience and why they chose the system. Knowledge is a reliable guide and power.
Paul Wilson is the Manager of content for http://www.1888SoftwareDownloads.com the premier website to find downloads of free software including free anti-virus software, software for the detection of free spyware, free toolbars, free chat software and more. It also manages content for http://www.1888FreeOnlineGames.com