Office 2019 Professional Plus: It’s the productivity suite everyone’s talking about, but is it right for you? This isn’t your grandpa’s Office suite; we’re diving deep into its features, comparing it to other options like Office 365 and Google Workspace, and exploring everything from licensing to troubleshooting. Get ready to unlock the full potential of this powerful tool.
Table of Contents
We’ll cover the core applications – Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, Publisher, and OneNote – showing you how to master advanced features and use them together for maximum efficiency. We’ll also tackle the big questions: Is a perpetual license better than a subscription? What are the security implications? And how does it stack up against the competition?
This guide will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.
Product Overview
Office 2019 Professional Plus is a one-time purchase version of Microsoft’s popular productivity suite. It offers a robust set of applications for both personal and professional use, providing powerful tools for document creation, spreadsheet management, presentation design, and more. Unlike the subscription-based Office 365, it doesn’t receive ongoing feature updates but provides a stable and reliable platform for users who prefer a one-time payment model.
Key Features of Office 2019 Professional Plus
Office 2019 Professional Plus includes the core applications you’d expect: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, and Publisher. These applications are fully featured, offering advanced capabilities like data analysis tools in Excel, sophisticated design features in PowerPoint, and robust email management in Outlook. Additionally, it bundles OneNote, providing a digital notebook for note-taking and organization. The suite also includes Skype for Business, enabling seamless communication and collaboration.
System Requirements for Optimal Performance
To ensure optimal performance, Microsoft recommends meeting certain system requirements. These specifications vary slightly depending on the application, but generally include a 64-bit processor, at least 4 GB of RAM, and several gigabytes of available hard drive space. A faster processor and more RAM will certainly improve responsiveness, especially when working with large files or complex projects. Having a solid-state drive (SSD) instead of a traditional hard drive (HDD) will significantly boost application loading times and overall performance.
A compatible graphics card is also needed, with minimum specifications typically being DirectX 10 graphics and 1280 x 768 screen resolution. Checking the official Microsoft website for the most up-to-date and detailed system requirements is always recommended before installation.
Comparison with Previous Versions (e.g., Office 2016)
While Office 2019 Professional Plus builds upon the foundation of Office 2016, it introduces several enhancements and improvements. These include performance optimizations, improved graphics capabilities, and updated features within each application. For example, Excel 2019 offers new functions and charting capabilities not available in its predecessor. PowerPoint 2019 has enhancements to its animation and transition features. While the core functionality remains largely similar, the updated version provides a more refined and efficient user experience.
However, it’s important to note that the feature updates cease after release, unlike the subscription-based alternatives.
Comparison with Other Microsoft Office Suites
The following table compares Office 2019 Professional Plus with other popular office suites:
Feature | Office 2019 Professional Plus | Office 365 | Google Workspace |
---|---|---|---|
Licensing | One-time purchase | Subscription-based | Subscription-based |
Software Updates | No ongoing updates | Regular updates and new features | Regular updates and new features |
Offline Access | Full offline access | Full offline access (depending on plan) | Limited offline access |
Cost | Higher upfront cost | Lower monthly/annual cost | Lower monthly/annual cost |
Applications Included | Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, Publisher, OneNote, Skype for Business | Similar applications, plus additional services | Docs, Sheets, Slides, Gmail, Drive, Calendar, Meet, etc. |
Collaboration Features | Limited built-in collaboration features | Strong built-in collaboration features | Excellent built-in collaboration features |
Application Breakdown

Okay, so you’ve got Office 2019 Pro Plus – that’s a powerhouse of productivity tools. Let’s break down what each app brings to the table and how you can use them like a pro. We’ll go beyond the basics and look at some seriously helpful features.
Word Functionality and Advanced Features
Word is your go-to for all things writing, from essays to reports to novels. Beyond basic formatting, Word offers advanced features like Track Changes (perfect for collaborative editing), mail merge (for personalized mass mailings), and the ability to insert and edit equations using the equation editor. A really useful tip is to explore the Styles feature – it allows you to consistently format your documents, saving tons of time.
Mastering styles makes your documents look polished and professional in minutes.
Excel Functionality and Advanced Features
Excel is where the data crunching happens. You can create spreadsheets, charts, and perform complex calculations. Beyond simple formulas, explore features like PivotTables (for summarizing large datasets), data validation (to ensure data accuracy), and conditional formatting (to highlight important data points). A productivity hack? Learn keyboard shortcuts – they’ll speed up your workflow drastically.
For instance, `Ctrl + Shift + ` (backtick) will quickly insert a new column.
PowerPoint Functionality and Advanced Features
PowerPoint is your presentation partner. It’s not just about bullet points; you can create engaging visual stories. Advanced features include animations and transitions, the ability to insert videos and audio, and the Presenter View (which shows your notes while only displaying the presentation to your audience). A pro tip: Use high-quality images and keep your slides clean and concise.
Too much text on a slide is a surefire way to lose your audience.
Outlook Functionality and Advanced Features, Office 2019 professional plus
Outlook manages your email, calendar, and contacts. Beyond basic email, explore features like Rules (to automate email management), categories (to organize your inbox), and the ability to schedule meetings directly from your calendar. A time-saving tip: Use the Quick Steps feature to create custom actions for frequently performed tasks, like flagging emails or moving them to specific folders.
Access Functionality and Advanced Features
Access lets you create databases. You can store and manage information efficiently, creating forms for data entry and queries to retrieve specific information. Advanced features include macros (to automate tasks within the database) and the ability to link to external data sources. A crucial tip is to design your database with careful consideration of data relationships – this ensures data integrity and efficient querying.
Publisher Functionality and Advanced Features
Publisher is for creating professional-looking publications like brochures, newsletters, and marketing materials. It offers advanced features like merging data with mail merge (similar to Word), creating custom templates, and using professional-looking design elements. A key tip is to leverage the pre-designed templates to get a head start on your project and maintain a consistent brand image.
OneNote Functionality and Advanced Features
OneNote is your digital notebook. You can jot down notes, create to-do lists, and gather information from various sources. Advanced features include audio recording, the ability to link to other files, and the ability to share notebooks with others. A productivity tip: Use OneNote to capture meeting minutes, brainstorm ideas, and consolidate research for a project.
Workflow Example: Planning a Conference
Let’s say you’re planning a conference. You could use Word to draft the conference proposal and agenda. Excel could track registrations and manage the budget. PowerPoint would be used to create presentations for sponsors and attendees. Outlook would handle communications with attendees, sponsors, and speakers.
Access could manage the speaker database, and Publisher could create marketing materials like brochures and flyers. Finally, OneNote could be used to keep track of all the notes and important information throughout the planning process. This integrated approach ensures efficiency and minimizes errors.
Licensing and Pricing
Okay, so you’re thinking about Office 2019 Professional Plus – good choice! But before you click “buy,” let’s talk licensing and pricing. Understanding these aspects is key to making sure you get the best deal and the right fit for your needs. It’s all about weighing the pros and cons of a one-time purchase versus a subscription.Office 2019 Professional Plus is sold as a perpetual license, meaning you buy it once and it’s yours to use indefinitely.
This contrasts with subscription models like Microsoft 365, where you pay a recurring fee for access to the software. The perpetual license model is straightforward; you pay a lump sum upfront, and there are no ongoing monthly or annual costs. However, this also means you won’t receive automatic updates or new features after the initial purchase.
Office 2019 Professional Plus Licensing Options
The primary licensing option for Office 2019 Professional Plus is a single-user license, allowing installation on one computer. Businesses often purchase volume licenses, which provide significant discounts for deploying the software across multiple devices. These volume licenses typically come with management tools to streamline deployment and updates within an organization. The specific pricing for volume licenses varies greatly depending on the number of licenses purchased and the chosen licensing program (e.g., Open License, Open Value).
It’s best to contact a Microsoft licensing specialist or reseller for a personalized quote on volume licensing.
Cost-Effectiveness Comparison: Perpetual vs. Subscription
Comparing the cost-effectiveness of Office 2019 Professional Plus against subscription services like Microsoft 365 requires careful consideration of your long-term needs. A one-time purchase of Office 2019 might seem cheaper upfront, especially for a single user. However, Microsoft 365 often includes additional services like cloud storage (OneDrive), online collaboration tools (Teams), and continuous updates. For example, a single user might pay $299 for Office 2019 Professional Plus but $69.99 annually for Microsoft 365 Personal.
Over three years, the subscription model costs $209.97, making it cheaper than the one-time purchase. However, the subscription includes additional services that might or might not be valued by the user. For a business, the added services and management tools within Microsoft 365 might outweigh the higher recurring cost.
Perpetual License vs. Subscription Implications
Choosing between a perpetual license and a subscription involves several trade-offs. A perpetual license provides ownership and avoids ongoing costs. However, you’re locked into the specific version you purchased, missing out on new features and security updates released after the initial purchase. Subscriptions, on the other hand, offer continuous access to the latest features, automatic updates, and often include cloud storage and collaboration tools.
The best choice depends heavily on individual needs and budget constraints. A small business with limited IT resources might find the convenience and ongoing support of a subscription more valuable, while a larger organization with dedicated IT staff might prefer the cost predictability and control offered by perpetual licenses. For home users, the cost savings of a subscription model over the long term might be appealing.
Security and Updates
Office 2019 Professional Plus boasts a robust suite of security features designed to protect your data and maintain system integrity. While it doesn’t receive the continuous feature updates of subscription-based services like Microsoft 365, it does benefit from periodic security patches addressing vulnerabilities as they are discovered. Understanding these features and the update process is crucial for maintaining a secure working environment.Security features in Office 2019 Professional Plus include built-in protection against malware and phishing attempts.
This involves features like the SmartScreen filter, which helps identify and block potentially malicious websites and downloads. Furthermore, the applications themselves incorporate security measures to prevent unauthorized access and modification of documents. These security mechanisms work in tandem to provide a layered approach to data protection.
Office 2019 Professional Plus Update Process
Security updates for Office 2019 Professional Plus are typically delivered through Microsoft Update or Windows Update, depending on your system configuration. These updates usually address critical security vulnerabilities and are recommended for installation as soon as possible. The update process itself is generally straightforward and involves downloading and installing the update package, often requiring a system restart to complete.
While not automatic like in subscription services, Microsoft actively monitors for and addresses security concerns through these updates. Users are responsible for initiating the updates. Failure to install these updates leaves the system vulnerable to potential exploits.
Comparison of Office 2019 Professional Plus Security with Other Suites
Compared to subscription-based office suites like Microsoft 365, Office 2019 Professional Plus has a different security model. Microsoft 365 benefits from a continuous stream of security updates and features, offering potentially more immediate protection against emerging threats. However, Office 2019 Professional Plus, while receiving security updates, lacks the continuous feature enhancements and proactive threat mitigation of a subscription service.
Other office suites, such as LibreOffice or Google Workspace, offer varying levels of security features, with some having more robust cloud-based security mechanisms than Office 2019 Professional Plus. The choice depends on individual needs and risk tolerance. A large corporation, for example, might prioritize the continuous security updates of Microsoft 365 over the one-time purchase of Office 2019 Professional Plus.
A smaller business with fewer resources might find Office 2019 Professional Plus sufficient.
Integration with Other Software: Office 2019 Professional Plus
Office 2019 Professional Plus isn’t a standalone island; it’s designed to work seamlessly with a vast ecosystem of other Microsoft products and even some third-party apps. This integration boosts productivity by allowing for smooth data transfer, collaborative workflows, and streamlined processes. Think of it as the central hub connecting various parts of your digital workspace.The deep integration with other Microsoft products is a major selling point.
For example, you can effortlessly embed a PowerPoint presentation directly into a Word document, share Excel spreadsheets with colleagues using OneDrive, and even schedule meetings using Outlook directly from within Word. This interconnectedness eliminates the need for tedious copy-pasting or manual file transfers, saving you time and reducing the risk of errors.
Integration with Microsoft Products
Office 2019 Professional Plus leverages the power of the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. Data stored in OneDrive, SharePoint, or Teams is readily accessible from within each Office application. Co-authoring features allow multiple users to work simultaneously on the same document, spreadsheet, or presentation, significantly improving team collaboration. The integration with Outlook streamlines email communication, allowing you to attach documents, schedule meetings, and manage your calendar directly within the Office suite.
This level of integration simplifies workflows and enhances overall productivity.
Integration with Third-Party Applications
While Microsoft’s own products are deeply integrated, Office 2019 Professional Plus also plays nicely with various third-party applications. Many popular CRM (Customer Relationship Management) systems, project management tools, and accounting software offer direct integration with Office applications. For instance, you might be able to import data from your CRM into Excel for analysis or export reports generated in Excel to your project management software.
The specific integration methods vary depending on the third-party application, often involving APIs or add-ins.
Using Automation Tools to Enhance Workflow
Automation tools significantly enhance workflow efficiency. VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) is a powerful scripting language built into Office applications. It allows you to automate repetitive tasks, such as generating reports, formatting documents, or extracting data from spreadsheets. For example, a VBA macro could automate the process of sending personalized emails to a large list of clients, saving considerable time and effort.
Other automation tools, such as Power Automate (formerly Microsoft Flow), can be integrated to further streamline workflows across different applications and services, connecting Office applications to other parts of your digital ecosystem. This enables complex automated workflows that would be impossible to manage manually.
User Interface and Experience
Office 2019 Professional Plus boasts a familiar and largely consistent user interface across its applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.). This consistency contributes to a relatively smooth user experience, especially for those already familiar with previous versions of Microsoft Office. The ribbon interface, introduced in earlier versions, remains the central element, providing easy access to commonly used tools and features through clearly labeled tabs and groups.
While some might find the ribbon initially overwhelming, its organization allows for efficient workflow once users become accustomed to its structure.The user interface prioritizes visual clarity and straightforward navigation. Icons are generally intuitive, and contextual menus appear dynamically, offering relevant options based on the user’s current task. The overall aesthetic is clean and uncluttered, minimizing distractions and maximizing screen real estate for document creation and editing.
Comparison with Other Office Suites
Office 2019’s interface differs from other office suites, such as Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) and LibreOffice, in several key aspects. Google Workspace emphasizes cloud integration and collaborative features, resulting in a more streamlined and web-centric interface. Its minimalist design, while efficient for online collaboration, may lack the depth and customization options offered by Office 2019. LibreOffice, an open-source alternative, presents a more traditional interface, resembling older versions of Microsoft Office.
While it offers a high degree of compatibility, its interface may feel less modern and intuitive to users accustomed to the ribbon-based layout of Microsoft Office. Ultimately, the “best” interface depends heavily on individual preferences and workflow needs.
Tips for Improving User Experience with Office 2019 Professional Plus
Effective utilization of Office 2019 hinges not just on understanding the interface, but also on employing strategic techniques to enhance productivity. Below are some actionable tips:
- Customize the Ribbon: The ribbon’s adaptability is a key strength. Remove infrequently used tabs or add frequently used commands to your quick access toolbar for faster access. This personalized approach minimizes clutter and maximizes efficiency.
- Utilize Keyboard Shortcuts: Mastering keyboard shortcuts significantly accelerates workflow. Learning common shortcuts for tasks like saving, copying, and pasting can save considerable time over the long run. Office 2019 offers extensive keyboard shortcut support, which can be accessed through the help menus or online resources.
- Explore Add-ins: Expand functionality by installing relevant add-ins. These extensions provide specialized tools and features tailored to specific needs, ranging from grammar checking and advanced formatting to data analysis and automation. The add-in marketplace offers a diverse selection to explore.
- Employ Templates: Start projects with pre-designed templates. These templates provide professionally designed layouts for various document types, saving time and ensuring consistency in formatting. Numerous templates are readily available within Office 2019, or can be downloaded from online resources.
- Regularly Save Your Work: This seemingly basic tip is crucial. Frequent saving prevents data loss due to unexpected crashes or power outages. Utilize the autosave feature to automatically save changes at specified intervals.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Let’s face it, even the best software can throw you a curveball sometimes. Office 2019 Professional Plus is generally reliable, but users occasionally run into snags. This section will equip you with the knowledge to tackle some common problems and get back to productivity quickly. We’ll cover some of the most frequently reported issues and offer practical solutions.
Application Startup Failures
Office applications failing to launch is a frustrating experience. This can stem from several sources, including corrupted installation files, conflicting software, or problems with your system’s registry. A methodical approach is key to resolving this.
- Check for Updates: Ensure your Windows operating system and Office suite are fully updated. Outdated components can sometimes cause compatibility issues.
- Run as Administrator: Right-click the application shortcut and select “Run as administrator.” This can bypass certain permission restrictions.
- Repair Office Installation: Access the Control Panel, find “Programs and Features,” locate Microsoft Office 2019 Professional Plus, and select “Change.” Choose the repair option to attempt to fix corrupted files.
- Reinstall Office: If repair fails, a clean reinstall might be necessary. Before doing so, back up any important data. You’ll need your product key for this process.
File Corruption or Data Loss
Losing unsaved work is a nightmare scenario. While Office 2019 has auto-recovery features, occasional corruption can occur. Understanding how to mitigate and recover from these situations is crucial.
- AutoRecover Feature: Office 2019 automatically saves temporary files at intervals. Check the AutoRecover folder location (usually specified in application settings) for unsaved versions of your documents.
- File Repair Tools: If a file is corrupted, try using built-in repair tools within the application. These tools attempt to salvage data from damaged files.
- Third-Party Recovery Software: For severely damaged files, consider using specialized data recovery software. These tools are often more powerful but may require payment.
- Preventative Measures: Regularly save your work, utilize cloud storage services for backups, and ensure your system is protected by a reliable antivirus program.
Add-in Conflicts
Sometimes, third-party add-ins can clash with Office applications, leading to instability or crashes. Disabling or removing these add-ins can often resolve the issue.
- Disable Add-ins: Access the add-in manager within each Office application (usually under File > Options > Add-ins). Disable suspect add-ins one by one to identify the culprit.
- Update or Remove Add-ins: If a specific add-in is causing the problem, try updating it to the latest version. If updates don’t resolve the issue, remove the add-in completely.
- Check Add-in Compatibility: Ensure that any add-ins you use are compatible with Office 2019 Professional Plus. Outdated or incompatible add-ins are a common source of problems.
Printing Issues
Problems with printing can range from driver conflicts to printer settings. Addressing these requires a systematic approach.
- Check Printer Connection: Ensure your printer is correctly connected to your computer and powered on.
- Update Printer Drivers: Outdated printer drivers can cause printing problems. Visit the manufacturer’s website to download the latest drivers for your printer model.
- Printer Settings: Review your printer settings in the application and on the printer itself. Incorrect settings, such as incorrect paper size or orientation, can lead to printing errors.
- Troubleshoot Printer: Many printers have built-in troubleshooting tools. Consult your printer’s manual or website for guidance.
Hardware and Software Compatibility
Office 2019 Professional Plus, while a powerful suite, still has specific hardware and software requirements to function optimally. Understanding these requirements ensures a smooth and efficient user experience, minimizing potential compatibility issues and maximizing productivity. This section Artikels the minimum and recommended specifications, as well as compatible operating systems and example configurations.
Minimum and Recommended Hardware Requirements
Meeting the minimum requirements will allow Office 2019 to run, but exceeding them, particularly in processor speed and RAM, significantly improves performance, especially when working with large files or multiple applications simultaneously. For instance, a system meeting only the minimum specs might experience noticeable lag when handling complex spreadsheets or presentations.
Specification | Minimum | Recommended |
---|---|---|
Processor | 1 GHz processor or faster | 1.6 GHz processor or faster |
RAM | 2 GB RAM | 4 GB RAM |
Hard Disk Space | 4 GB available disk space | 8 GB available disk space |
Display | 1024 x 768 screen resolution | 1280 x 800 screen resolution or higher |
Graphics Card | DirectX 10 graphics card | DirectX 11 graphics card or higher |
Operating System Compatibility
Office 2019 Professional Plus is designed to work with specific versions of Windows and macOS. Using an unsupported operating system can lead to instability, unexpected errors, or complete failure of the software. Always verify compatibility before installing.
Operating System | Compatibility |
---|---|
Windows 10 (64-bit) | Supported |
Windows Server 2019 | Supported |
macOS 2019 | Supported (via virtualization software like Parallels Desktop or VMware Fusion) |
Windows 7 | Not officially supported |
Windows 8 | Not officially supported |
macOS Catalina or earlier | Not officially supported |
Examples of Compatible Hardware and Software Configurations
Many different hardware and software combinations successfully run Office 2019. The examples below represent common, well-performing setups. Note that these are examples, and many other configurations will work just as well.
Example 1 (High-Performance): A desktop computer with an Intel Core i7 processor, 16 GB of RAM, a 512 GB SSD, and a dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics card running Windows 10 64-bit. This configuration handles demanding tasks effortlessly.
Example 2 (Mid-Range): A laptop with an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, 8 GB of RAM, a 256 GB SSD, and integrated graphics running Windows 10 64-bit. This provides a good balance between performance and portability.
Example 3 (Basic): A desktop computer with an Intel Core i3 processor, 4 GB of RAM, a 1 TB HDD, and integrated Intel HD Graphics running Windows 10 64-bit. This meets the minimum requirements but might experience slower performance with large files.
Deployment and Installation
Getting Office 2019 Professional Plus up and running on your systems, whether it’s a single machine or a whole network, is pretty straightforward, but the best method depends on your setup. This section covers the basic installation process and then dives into deployment strategies for larger organizations.The installation process for a single computer is typically a simple matter of running the downloaded installer.
You’ll need an internet connection during the initial setup to activate the software and download any necessary updates. The installer will guide you through the process, asking you to accept the license agreement and choose the programs you want to install (like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.). After that, it’s a matter of waiting for the installation to complete and then launching your chosen applications.
Any issues encountered during this single-machine install are typically easily resolved by checking for updates, restarting your computer, or consulting Microsoft’s support documentation.
Deployment Methods for Organizations
Organizations often need to deploy Office 2019 Professional Plus across numerous computers, and this requires a more sophisticated approach than simply clicking an installer on each machine. Several methods exist, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The optimal method will depend on the size and structure of your organization, as well as your existing IT infrastructure.
Deployment Using Microsoft Deployment Toolkit (MDT)
MDT is a powerful tool that allows for automated deployment of software, including Office 2019 Professional Plus. This method is ideal for large organizations with a robust IT infrastructure. Using MDT, administrators can create customized installation images that include Office 2019 and other necessary applications. These images can then be deployed to numerous computers simultaneously, reducing the time and effort required for manual installation on each machine.
The process involves creating a task sequence within MDT that includes the Office 2019 installation package and any necessary configurations. Once the task sequence is created, it can be deployed to target computers using various methods such as network boot or USB drives. MDT provides extensive logging and reporting capabilities, which help administrators monitor the deployment process and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
This method offers significant control over the installation process, allowing administrators to customize settings and ensure consistency across all deployed systems.
Deployment Using System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM)
Similar to MDT, SCCM provides a comprehensive solution for managing and deploying software within an organization. SCCM offers a centralized management console for deploying applications, updates, and configurations to a large number of computers. It offers robust features for monitoring deployment progress, managing software updates, and generating reports. Deploying Office 2019 Professional Plus through SCCM involves creating an application package within the SCCM console, which includes the Office 2019 installer and any necessary configuration files.
The package is then deployed to target computer collections based on defined criteria, such as operating system, location, or user group. SCCM’s ability to manage updates and configurations centrally is a key advantage for maintaining a consistent and secure Office environment across the organization.
Deployment Using Click-to-Run (C2R)
Click-to-Run is a technology that enables a streamlined installation process for Office 2019 Professional Plus. While typically used for single-machine installations, C2R can be leveraged for larger deployments using tools like Microsoft Endpoint Manager. This method offers a simpler approach compared to MDT or SCCM, particularly for organizations with less complex IT infrastructures. The C2R installer is smaller and downloads the necessary components on demand, reducing the initial download size.
However, it requires an active internet connection during installation.
Deploying Office 2019 Professional Plus to a Large Number of Computers
Deploying Office 2019 Professional Plus to a large number of computers necessitates careful planning and execution. Factors to consider include network bandwidth, the number of target computers, and the available IT infrastructure. Using a centralized deployment method like MDT or SCCM is crucial for efficiency and consistency. Pilot testing the deployment process on a smaller subset of computers before rolling it out to the entire organization is highly recommended to identify and resolve any potential issues.
Proper error handling and logging are vital for troubleshooting during the deployment process. Regular monitoring and reporting help administrators track the progress and identify any problems that may occur during or after the deployment. In addition, planning for post-deployment tasks such as software updates and user training is essential for ensuring the success of the deployment.
Advanced Features and Functions
Office 2019 Professional Plus packs some seriously powerful tools beyond the basics. Mastering these advanced features can dramatically boost your productivity and unlock new levels of efficiency in your workflow, whether you’re crafting compelling documents, analyzing complex datasets, or creating stunning presentations. Let’s dive into some key functionalities.
This section explores the advanced features of VBA macros, Power Query, and data analysis tools within the Office 2019 suite. We’ll examine how these features can streamline tasks and improve overall productivity. Examples will illustrate their practical applications across Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
VBA Macros
VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) allows you to automate repetitive tasks within Office applications. Imagine having to format hundreds of documents in the exact same way – a tedious process. With VBA, you can write a macro that performs these formatting tasks automatically with a single click. This saves significant time and reduces the risk of human error.
For instance, a macro could automatically insert headers, footers, page numbers, and specific formatting styles into every document. Another example might involve creating a macro to extract specific data from an email and populate a spreadsheet automatically. The possibilities are virtually limitless, depending on your coding skills and the tasks you want to automate.
Power Query
Power Query (Get & Transform in older versions) is a game-changer for data manipulation and analysis, particularly within Excel. It allows you to connect to various data sources (databases, spreadsheets, web pages), import data, clean it up, transform it, and load it into Excel for analysis. For example, if you need to consolidate data from multiple CSV files, Power Query can automate the process, cleaning and merging the data into a single, consistent table.
Imagine needing to analyze sales data from different regional offices – Power Query simplifies this complex task, ensuring data consistency and accuracy before you even begin your analysis. This significantly reduces the time spent on manual data entry and cleaning, freeing you up to focus on the actual analysis.
Data Analysis Tools
Office 2019 provides a robust set of built-in data analysis tools, primarily within Excel. These tools extend beyond basic spreadsheet functions, enabling sophisticated analysis and reporting. For example, you can leverage pivot tables to summarize and analyze large datasets, quickly identifying trends and patterns. Data analysis tools also include advanced charting capabilities, allowing you to visualize data in compelling and informative ways.
Imagine analyzing sales data across different product lines and regions – pivot tables and charts can help you identify top-performing products, regions with the highest sales growth, and potential areas for improvement.
Advanced Features Across Office Applications
The following table summarizes the applications of these advanced features across Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Feature | Word Application | Excel Application | PowerPoint Application |
---|---|---|---|
VBA Macros | Automate document formatting, content generation, and mail merges. | Automate data entry, calculations, report generation, and data manipulation. | Automate slide creation, formatting, and data import from other sources. |
Power Query | Import and clean data from various sources for inclusion in documents (e.g., creating reports with data from external databases). | Import, clean, transform, and analyze data from various sources (e.g., consolidating sales data from multiple files). | Import and transform data for use in charts and other visual elements within presentations. |
Data Analysis Tools (Excel-centric) | Limited direct application, but data analyzed in Excel can be easily incorporated into Word documents. | Pivot tables, charts, and statistical functions for comprehensive data analysis. | Data visualizations created in Excel can be imported into PowerPoint presentations. |
Future Outlook and Alternatives

Office 2019 Professional Plus, while a powerful suite, operates on a perpetual license model, meaning you buy it once and it’s yours. However, this differs significantly from the subscription model offered by Microsoft 365, and understanding the long-term implications of each is crucial for making an informed decision. This section explores the future of Office 2019 and compares it to other options, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.The long-term support for Office 2019 Professional Plus is finite.
Microsoft provides mainstream support for a set period, followed by extended support, during which only critical security updates are released. Once extended support ends, users are left vulnerable to security threats and will not receive any further updates, including bug fixes or new features. This means that while you might initially save money by purchasing a perpetual license, you’ll eventually need to upgrade to a newer version, potentially incurring a significant cost in the future.
This contrasts sharply with subscription services which offer continuous updates and new features throughout the subscription period.
Office 2019 Professional Plus Compared to Other Long-Term Options
Several alternatives exist for those seeking long-term productivity solutions. LibreOffice is a completely free and open-source alternative that offers similar functionality to Microsoft Office. While it lacks some of the advanced features found in Office 2019, its open-source nature ensures continued development and community support. Another option is Google Workspace, a cloud-based suite offering a range of applications similar to Microsoft Office.
This subscription-based service provides constant updates and accessibility from any device with an internet connection. Finally, other perpetual license suites from other vendors may offer similar functionalities but often with limitations in features or compatibility. The choice between these options depends heavily on individual needs and priorities.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Perpetual vs. Subscription Licenses
Choosing between a perpetual license (like Office 2019) and a subscription model (like Microsoft 365) involves weighing several factors. A perpetual license offers upfront cost certainty; you pay once and own the software indefinitely (within the support timeframe). However, this comes at the cost of limited updates and eventual obsolescence. Subscription models, on the other hand, offer ongoing access to the latest features, security updates, and often cloud storage.
The recurring cost can be a drawback, but the consistent updates and access to new tools can justify this for some users. For example, a small business might find the consistent feature updates and cloud integration of Microsoft 365 invaluable, even with the recurring cost, while a home user with limited needs might find Office 2019 a more cost-effective solution, accepting the eventual need for an upgrade.
The ideal choice depends on individual budget, technological needs, and risk tolerance.
So, yeah, Office 2019 Professional Plus is great for all the usual stuff – spreadsheets, presentations, the whole shebang. But if you need to create some seriously killer visuals for your presentations, you’ll probably want to check out adobe after effects for those sweet animations. Then, once you’ve got those awesome graphics, you can easily integrate them into your Office 2019 Professional Plus documents for a truly polished presentation.
Conclusive Thoughts

Ultimately, choosing between Office 2019 Professional Plus and other productivity suites depends on your specific needs and budget. While the perpetual license offers a one-time cost, subscription services provide ongoing updates and features. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each application within the suite, as well as its security features and integration capabilities, is crucial. Hopefully, this deep dive has provided you with the insights needed to confidently choose the best option for your workflow.
General Inquiries
Can I use Office 2019 Professional Plus on multiple computers?
No, a single license is typically for one computer only. To use it on multiple machines, you’ll need multiple licenses.
What happens when support for Office 2019 ends?
Microsoft provides a certain amount of support after the product’s release. After that, you won’t receive security updates or bug fixes, making it vulnerable to threats.
How much storage space does Office 2019 Professional Plus require?
The installation size varies depending on the components installed, but generally requires several gigabytes of hard drive space.
Can I upgrade from Office 2016 to Office 2019 Professional Plus?
You can’t directly upgrade; you’ll need to purchase and install Office 2019 Professional Plus separately. You might be able to transfer some data, though.
Is there a free trial available for Office 2019 Professional Plus?
No, Microsoft doesn’t offer a free trial for Office 2019 Professional Plus. You can usually find free trials for Office 365 subscriptions, though.