While Google Workspace is the most popular office software, many small businesses still need other options that offer more privacy, specific features, or lower prices. These platforms don’t have the best reputations, but they offer excellent collaboration tools and don’t tie you to Google’s office environment. Let’s take a look at seven intriguing options that might be a better fit for your business.
1. Zoho Workplace: A Candidate for an All-in-One Solution
Zoho Workplace offers a complete office environment with a more private setting and a more business-oriented philosophy. On the other hand, Zoho boasts an industry-specific design and provides a wider range of customization options compared to Google’s uniform approach. Zoho’s free plan supports up to five people at a time. Paid plans start at just $3 per user per month, which is much cheaper than Google Workspace.
2. OnlyOffice: A security-focused alternative
For businesses that handle private data, OnlyOffice offers an on-premises deployment option that Google can’t match. The document writer is nearly fully compatible with Microsoft Office and solves the formatting issues of Google Docs. The self-hosted version gives you complete control over your data. Cloud plans start at $5 / user per month.
3. CryptPad: A zero-knowledge privacy solution
This open source platform takes a completely different approach; all data is encrypted before it is sent to a computer. Lawyers, healthcare professionals, and companies that must adhere to strict regulations will appreciate CryptPad. Not only does it have powerful security features, it also offers real-time communication tools. Prices start at $5 per person per month, with a generous free package available.
4. Open source software giant LibreOffice Online
Many people don’t know that this well-known PC office suite also supports a cloud version. LibreOffice Online lets you use all the features to introduce changes to your documents without paying a monthly fee. It’s not as full-featured as Google Docs for team collaboration, but it works better offline and supports more file types. Self-hosting is free, but managed services start at $5 per person per month.
5. Nuclino: A knowledge center for minimalists
Nuclino is an easy-to-use program that combines paper, wiki, and task management into one program. Its easy-to-use connectivity system, ideal for teams that value organization over complex design, connects all repositories directly. Its visual kanban view makes it perfect for project planning. Subscriptions start at $5 per person per month, and small teams can use the service for free.
6. Coda: Merging documents and databases
Coda changes the way we think about paper, transforming it into a fluid workspace that can hold databases, kanban boards, and dynamic sections. Businesses that want to create their own processes but don’t know how to write codes will love this. It costs $10/user/month more than other tools in your stack, but it can replace many others.
7. Etherpad is a simple, collaborative editor
Occasionally you just need a quick and easy way to collaborate on text messages without needing any extra tools. Etherpad lets you collaborate on documents in real time and loads much faster than Google Docs. If you use the open source version yourself, it’s free. However, hosted options like HackMD charge $5 per person per month for Markdown support.
8. Things to consider when making the switch
Before you leave Google Workspace, check the following:
- Compatibility with different file formats (especially Microsoft Office files)
- Mobile app features
- Third-party plugins that are compatible with your current tools
- To make changes again, select Export.
- Team training on the new layout is required
Summary: Find your perfect match
All of these options are better than Google Workspace in one way or another. Zoho and OnlyOffice offer better business tools, CryptPad puts privacy first, and Coda and Nuclino revolutionize the way people collaborate. Many Google Workspaces offer free trials or subscriptions, so you can choose the plan that best fits your daily work.
The best option for you depends on the size of your team, your business needs, and the Google Workspace features that matter most to you. With these options, you’re no longer limited by the idea that
