Google Docs makes collaborative editing easier on Microsoft Word

Google has given those who work with Microsoft Word another reason to move documents to the cloud. Google announced a new function that converts any tracked changes in Word documents to Suggested Edits. Basically, if you have Word documents with a lot of tracked changes, you can simply upload them to Google Docs, and the tracked changes will show up as Suggested Edits. Google has been working on making it easier for people to work on Docs collaboratively, which is essential for business and enterprise.

The Google Apps suite is deployed at more than five million businesses, but the internet giant knows better than to ignore the masses of enterprises subscribing to Microsoft Office 365. Like many other cloud software makers, Google has recognized the value in making its own platform compatible with others to foster productivity. Nevertheless, it looks like Google might have a few tricks in the bag, sidestepping the need for Office altogether. The Mountain View, Calif.-based company introduced a tiny but potentially powerful new feature designed to enable users to edit and share Office files — without Office. Starting today for the web version, Google Docs users can make Suggested Edits and convert tracked changes to Suggested Edits. (Support on mobile is promised to follow soon.) Any tracked changes in a .docx file will be automatically carried over to Docs as Suggested Edits. Users can collaborate with other team members in real time once these changes are imported to Google Docs.