2.1 Software Basics

Software is the lifeblood of a computer system that gets work done personally and in the business world.
Word processing applications are used to create text-based documents such as memos, letters, and reports.
Spreadsheet applications are used to work with data, especially numerical data.
Presentation applications are used to create slides that combine text and visuals to be shared in a presentation.
Specialized applications include programs that are used only in certain disciplines or occupations.
Installing and maintaining software is an important skill to have in today’s business world and beyond.

2.2 Files and Folders

Some best practices for organizing and cleaning your files include never storing files on your desktop, removing files from the download folder, and using descriptive folder names.
The different types of files include document, worksheet, presentation, and graphics files.
Files can be managed, shared, organized, and stored in the cloud using the applications provided by Google or Microsoft.

Communication in organizations today is facilitated with technology.
Many applications include features to facilitate communication across time zones and borders.
Email applications such as Outlook and Gmail make it possible to communicate and to send files via the internet.
Instant chat/messaging platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Slack have been used to create virtual workspaces for teams in organizations.
Productivity in teams can be enhanced by using calendar applications to manage team meetings and project tasks.

Applications in the Office suite have generally the same layout.
The options to customize files are arranged on the ribbon by tabs based on the usage.
The Save, Save As, Open, and Print options are common among all applications.
By using the settings options in the applications, you can customize the view and the ribbon to meet your needs.

Apps in Workspace include Docs, Sheets, and Slides. These apps are similar in many ways to their Microsoft counterparts.
Google has some of the same functionality that you will find in Microsoft, but items may use different terminology.
A unique feature of creating files in Google is that the files are automatically saved in your Drive in the cloud.
Commands and settings in Google are arranged in menus, with the more frequently used commands appearing as icons on the toolbar.

Collaboration and teamwork are essential aspects of today’s workplace. Both can be fostered through technology. Sharing platforms such as OneDrive and Drive make it possible to collaborate and track teamwork across a wide variety of applications.
Today’s companies expect workers to treat videoconferencing with the same level of professionalism as in-office meetings.
Companies use popular software programs such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams to run videoconferences.
You can share and collaborate on documents through editing and commenting functions.