The first major purchase after a new computer is usually a suite of programs that we’ve all been using for years – Microsoft Office. You know, the suite that includes Word, Excel, and Outlook. Depending on what version you currently have, and what version you buy, this can run you anywhere from about $130 to $400. Not exactly a small chunk of change, no matter how you look at it.

Don’t be so quick to give Microsoft your money

It’s 2009 folks, and there are great alternatives to Microsoft Office. What I’ve been transitioning to is Google Docs. Google has a word processor ( like Word ), spreadsheet ( like excel ) and even a Powerpoint alternative ( though I haven’t tried that one ). For an easy Outlook replacement, you can use a combination of Gmail, Google Calendar, and Tasks.

Google Docs can handle uploads of your current Office documents – so you won’t need to create them all from scratch. It can also save in Office format – for when you need to take documents with you. The best part about Google Docs is the price. Not hundreds of dollars like Office – but exactly zero dollars. That’s it. Completely free, and it can replace Office for probably 90% of users. No more purchasing upgrades to get the latest features – Google adds features at no cost.

If you haven’t tried Google Docs, you’re really missing out. Try it for a week, and there’s no way you’ll go back to Office.