Here’s What’s New With Microsoft Office 2021

Here’s What’s New With Microsoft Office 2021

Microsoft will be releasing two new versions of Office for Windows and MacOS later this year. You can expect a raft of changes and new, or updated features with the new release. Although Microsoft hasn’t revealed much about Office 2021, emerging details point to new aspects, including dark mode support and accessibility improvements, as well as new features such as XLOOKUP and Dynamic Arrays, in Excel.

What is Office 2021?

Office 2021 will be the latest version of desktop productivity applications designed for your office or business. The first edition came into being in 1988, announced by Bill Gates, the founder of Microsoft Corporation. Since then, every new release comes with changes and new features, signaling improved functionality and efficiency.

Details about the features and changes in Office 2021 aren’t quite conclusive yet. However, Microsoft has revealed the following:

1. Dark mode support

One of the major changes you should expect in Office 2021 is the dark mode feature. You can definitely expect this in the hyped Office LTSC (Long-Term Servicing Channel). Office LTSC is one of the two new releases from Microsoft announced in February 2021. You will be able to switch from light mode to dark mode, or vice versa, to find the interface more comfortable for your eyes.

You may not expect to see more changes in the user interface, but the dark mode has been long overdue. Microsoft may focus its attention on other aspects of the user interface, as would be expected. However, most of its attention may go to the cloud-based version, Office 365. This means Microsoft isn’t leaving anything to chance. Your cloud-based Office account is likely to see various upgrades.

2. No more subscriptions

The two new Office versions from Microsoft also seem to acknowledge that not everyone is ready to move to the cloud. If you belong to the rather conservative category not yet embracing cloud-based solutions, the giant productivity software company has taken you into account in its new version offerings.

This is not to take anything away from the cloud-based version of Office. Microsoft notes that it has had many customers moving to the cloud in the last 10 months.

Some reasons many organizations moved to the cloud include the following:

• Security of data: Data and applications are more secure on the cloud than on-premises hardware. Enhanced security features are offered by Office 365
• Flexibility: Data on the cloud is accessible from anywhere and across multiple platforms.  Thus, individuals and teams can work from remote locations
• Cost-effective: Cloud-based services attract a flat monthly fee, and don’t require hardware and software upgrades on the part of the business

Microsoft also acknowledges the category of customers not ready for cloud-based services. It recognizes that for that category, it isn’t because it doesn’t make sense to them. Head of Microsoft 365 said it was a matter of meeting the customers where they are. This includes specific scenarios that don’t allow them to use cloud services.

These scenarios include the following:

• Regulated industries whose processes and apps can’t change on a monthly basis
• Manufacturing establishments relying on Office and need a locked-in time release
• Firms in remote areas without internet connectivity

It may appear that the next Office release will be for those who don’t embrace Office 365. However, Microsoft is committed to another perpetual version for the future. But, it will change the pricing and support for the new release.

So, if you are not ready for the cloud yet, you could embrace Office LTSC. This application receives support for five years instead of the usual seven. A one-off payment will be enough to secure Office services for your business for the next five years. You will also be happy to note that Microsoft still supports older devices. The two releases will be available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.

How the new Microsoft Office 2021 will benefit businesses in South Florida

If you run a business in South Florida, you have reason to wait for the two new releases of Office 2021. Like the previous version, Office 2021 is set to come with plenty of new features and changes. Use them to enhance the productivity of your business.

Here are some of the benefits of the latest releases:

• Lower operation costs: Office LTSC won’t require subscriptions, so you won’t have to worry about monthly payments. You will pay a one-off fee and use it for the next five years, especially if your business isn’t ready for cloud-based solutions.
• Innovative user interface: More background shades will be available for Office 2021, and will combine well with the dark mode for a good visual impression. A comfortable working environment means enhanced staff morale and better outcomes for your business in South Florida.
• Improved productivity: You can choose the version of Office that doesn’t require a monthly subscription. This flexibility lets you drive your business to the next level of growth. Also, more features in the 2021 edition will expand its scope of operation, resulting in improved productivity.
• Universal appeal: One thing you will love about Microsoft Office is its universal appeal and compatibility across various platforms. Whether on Mac, Android, or iOS, you will still be able to use the highly innovative Office 2021.
• Ease of use: Previous versions of Microsoft Office have always been easy to learn and use, the 2021 edition can’t be different. The basics are pretty much the same, and you will be up and running without difficulties. Launch the application you want to use, and the rest will be accomplished via the easy menu at the top of the document.
• Security: A host of security features, even with the offline version, go a long way to provide security for your data and documents.

We Can Help Your Business

The success of your business in South Florida may depend on many factors, including how well you use the version of Microsoft Office you have. With Office 2021 around the corner, you can look forward to greater productivity and user experience. If you need more information on Office 2021, or how to grow your business through productivity apps, please contact us.