Microsoft Office support is critical to your organization. As the most popular productivity software suite, Microsoft Office can help you run your business smoothly and effectively. It includes word processing, desktop publishing, email and scheduling, slide presentations, database and spreadsheet applications.

Many business functions revolve around Office, and your company relies on it for productivity and performance. A problem or inability to use Office effectively can cause frustration and delays and bring your business to a grinding halt. There are plenty of resources for MS Office support. Some of them include:

1. Web or phone support can solve Microsoft Office technical issues.

2. Online, computer-based or in-person training will get your staff the Microsoft Office help resources they need to use the programs effectively.

3. Online resources can provide quick hints and help with performing advanced functions.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get thorough MS Office training

The best way to use Office effectively is to get proper training. Even professionals with Office experience can learn new techniques and benefit from refresher courses.

I recommend: Premier Knowledge Solutions Inc. provides basic, intermediate and advanced courses in Office 2003 and Office 2007 applications. You can take courses at their offices or have a representative train your employees onsite. CBT Planet sells computer-based training CDs to train your staff at any time at your location. They offer single- and multi-user licenses.

Get quick MS Office help services

Even with thorough training, sometimes you may get stuck and need to know how to quickly accomplish tasks in Microsoft Office. Online templates and tips can help you get the MS Office help that you need quickly.

I recommend: A thorough Microsoft Office help resource is included with your MS Office installation. Just click "Help" on the menu and type in your question. Microsoft Help provides comprehensive resources to help you use Office. For even faster hints, try laminated reference guides from BrainStorm Inc. Keep them on your desk for quick reference. A wide variety of free PowerPoint templates is available for download from TemplatesWise. They can help you get started on your next presentation. The Advanced Excel Profit Center is dedicated to helping others use Excel to its full potential. Their website provides help on advanced functions and formulas. Microsoft Office Online features tips and demos of new ways to use Office right on the front page. You can browse by product, type in search words, or view online demos, webcasts and training. Microsoft Discussion Groups allow you to talk to other users to find out how to use Office effectively.

Get fast Microsoft Office technical support

Learning to use Microsoft Office can be frustrating. But a far worse event is when Microsoft Office doesn't work right - or not at all. Get quick access to Microsoft Office technical support online or by phone.

I recommend: Tech24 provides per-minute Microsoft Office support for a reasonable fee. At the Microsoft Office Suites Solution Center you can download fixes and updates, troubleshoot errors and get links to online and telephone support.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Choose 'Tools' and 'Options' from any Microsoft Office application to customize your Office installation.