iWork '06

Who here uses iWork '06? I tried the trial and loved it so now I'm using it full-time, I haven't even bothered to install OpenOffice. Pages is leagues ahead of Word, although it takes quite some time to get used to the new interface and controls. Same for Keynote, one can make presentations that will completely blow even the most advanced Powerpoints out of the water. And Apple's new 3D transition effects completely outdo everything puny little Powerpoint does. Not to mention the awesome textures for graphs now. And the templates for Pages are gorgeous. I don't know what I'd do without iWork.

#405573

I use iWork (first edition) and love it. I am not planning to upgrade until they have an Excel-like program for it. That is the ONLY thing I want. But I agree, it's simplistic and beautiful. I was amazed on how great things look in Keynote. And Pages is much more than just a word processor.

#405576

For most of my documents that are "pretty" (brochures, resumés, etc.), I use Pages. Normal word-processing is done using MS Word. I really hate the Font Palette in Mac OS X for some odd reason. I would much rather change from a list like Word or Photoshop. Takes less space too and can be added to a toolbar. In short, if I use matte paper and my EPSON R2400, Pages; if I use cheap paper and my Brother laser, Word.

My presentations when I use my own computer or a projector, I use Keynote. Otherwise, I use Powerpoint. In either case, I frequently use a simple font (Trebuchet MS, Gill Sans, or Veranda) and no transitions for most slides. The only one I use is Dissolve or a variant of it when switching between large topics. I always use a dark background and white font unless I am forced to present in a well-lit room with a poor projector.

#405585

Can I use Pages as a simple word processor? Where does it fall short, when compared to Word? If I buy a Mac (likely), I have a feeling I'll be tempted to buy Office, unless convinced otherwise...

-NC

#405590

I use iWork regularely, not Keynote.. but Pages a lot.

Actually I use Office X also, but that's only because I get attachments in Word format.. but for my personal writing I use Pages only.

#405663

Pages '06 can open and export word documents.

Pages really rocks. It doesn't fall short of word in any way, Word falls short of pages though.

#405821

I have iWork on windows but it's never really grown on me much.

#405951

I use Pages and Keynote: both excellent programs. The templates are great but the capabilities that you have with making custom templates and/or custom brochures are the really awesome thing. Pages also does plain text stuff and actually has a few pre made templates for things like essays and reports.

Personally, unless I'm writing a book or something, I rely on different fonts and text art rather than images for professional looking papers, but pages also has the capability for commercial brochures and announcments.

#405993