Google Docs
Introduction
In this current age of technology it is easier now to work and develop knowledge than ever before. Advancements in the way information can be sent over the internet means that software like Google Docs is possible. Software such as Google Docs changes the way both internet and group work is carried out. This report will be discussing what Google Docs is and the overall benefits and drawbacks of this software.
What is Google Docs?
Google Docs is a document writing application similar to Microsoft Word however the main difference between them is that Google Docs is an online application. This this mean the user as it means that they can access their documents on different devices and in different places as their documents are saved online on Googles servers/ “the cloud” which means there’s a less chance of work being lost as work doesn’t have to be transported using USB drives etc. or stored locally. This can be accessed by logging into your personal google account where most recent saves of your documents can be found.
Benefits
One of the benefits of Google Docs is that it can be worked on collaboratively since it is an online application it means that the documents created can be accessed by other people. This makes group projects much easier as it means you don’t have to manually send copies to different members of the group and make manual changes to your document in order to add the contributions of other members of the group. Since the document is edited in real time and saved continuously, I means real time editing of all members of the group can work on the same document at once. This means group members can see the changes being made and are able to comment or change parts in real time making the process much more efficient and ensures everyone has the most up to date copy of the document. This ability to edit documents in real time also means that groups can work on and share their documents over long distances. This means that it is much easier now for great minds to collaborate even if they are separated over different countries which could potentially see more advancements in technology and knowledge in general.
Another benefit of using this application is that it is free. With this application being free it means that anyone from any income (with a computer and internet connection) can access and use this application. This means more people are able to use this application and are able to pursue creativity in the forms of reporting, novel writing etc. This is crucial as most other brands of document editing can be expensive such as Microsoft Word which requires you to have Microsoft office which can cost £59.99 to £79.99 annually. (TrackVia 2018)
Drawbacks
Even though the fact of Google Docs being online can been seen as an advantage (with it allowing access virtually anywhere), it can also be seen as a drawback of the application. This is because, since the work carried out on the application is saved online to your specific account, it means that it is not possible to work on Google Docs without an internet connection. This is a problem since issues with internet connection can be a regular occurrence. This could be a serious issue if there is a tight deadline as it could mean potentially finishing past the scheduled date.
The requirement of an internet connection also means that countries and rural areas where an internet connection isn’t possible are unable to use the application. This means that Google are missing a large demographic. (TrackVia 2018)