I’m trying to write a work sample/portfolio today using MSFT Word on a Windows machine. As expected, pre-installed templates there are not, so I went perusing their template area by clicking “Templates on Microsoft.com” in the Word sidebar.
After finding a few that might serve my purpose, Microsoft refused download access until I ran some verification programs that ensure my Office version is “genuine.”
Thank you, MSFT, I appreciate your concern. I’m glad this can only be done through IE, too, because switching browsers is really convenient.
After 10 minutes of battle, I’m finally verified (the irony of IE blocking a pop-up from MSFT.com was not lost on me). Lock and load, let’s get this template!
Or not:
You cannot automatically download this template because you do not have Microsoft Word 2007 installed on your computer.
Try the 2007 Microsoft Office system for free
Advanced download optionsThis template requires Microsoft Word 2007. If you have this version of the product, click Download to proceed. If not, you can download a free trial of the 2007 Microsoft Office system.
I didn’t think I was using Word 2007, so this wasn’t much of a surprise. What was a surprise was the shit-tastic options they offered as consolation.
(Also note that I clicked through to this site from my Word program. You’d think they could detect what version I was using and take me right to a page suggesting compatible templates).
As a user trying to customize my Word experience, these are pretty disappointing options.
Instead of only asking me for more money, why not offer a few templates I can use along with the option to upgrade? Having used Pages and its beautiful, free templates, this doesn’t bode well for an upgrade or even continued use of Word at all.
When a customer is trying to enhance and customize their relationship to your product or service, the worst thing to do is offer a dead end. Put suggested links at the bottom of every web page, offer related products on each product summary page, and show next steps to furthering communication permission.
Make it convenient for them, not you, and never force just 1 option.
{ 4 } Comments
“compatible” not “compatable” TSK TSK.
Woops. I’m dabbling with Google Chrome and always forget it lacks a spell-checker. My extremely low spelling abilities are now rearing their ugly heads.
Word never had “pretty templates” until 2007. That’s one of the big improvements in the software–if that’s what you’re looking for. Keep in mind that the core function of Office is (as clearly stated in its name) to support professional needs. Pretty templates didn’t fit the bill for a long time.
Pages on the other hand is in iLife. And it has its own set of issues any time you want to do anything vaguely powerful.
The genuine verification, on the other hand, is truly a pain in the ass.
Actually, I have found Pages much more powerful when it comes to rapidly developing a nice, professional looking template/color scheme/document.
In terms of speed and effectiveness, I think Pages will fit the bill for most people and entrepreneurs.
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