Integrated Programs

Integrated programs offer all of the functions of the leading productivity programs in a single easy-to-use program. Integrated programs such as Microsoft Works are generally aimed at beginning users. They offer easy-to-learn and easy-to-use versions of basic productivity software. All of the functions, called modules, share the same interface, and you can switch between them quickly. The individual modules, however, may be short on features compared with standalone programs or office suites. The lack of features may make these easy programs seem more difficult when you start exploring the program’s more advanced capabilities. Microsoft Works contains a word processor that is very similar a Word, a spreadsheet program that is very similar to Excel, a database program, a calendar, and other productivity tools. The modules of an integrated program are not available as standalone programs-you cannot purchase the spreadsheet program in Works as a standalone product.

Note: Microsoft Works is a discontinued office suite by Microsoft. Works is smaller, was less expensive, and has fewer features than Microsoft Office or other major office suites. (2014)