Office 2010 coming to Offutt computers Published Sept. 26, 2011 By 2nd Lt. Sean Harcourt 55th Communications Squadron OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. -- The 55th Wing is getting a new tool, Microsoft Office 2010. The next questions users might ask are when do I get it and how has it changed? A firm release date is not known; however, it's expected to be before mid-November. Presently, the software is undergoing final analysis before allowing installation on the Offutt network. With new software, people are often concerned how the upgrade will impact their existing Microsoft Office documents. Office 2010 provides a seamless upgrade to the existing Microsoft applications, but with a new level of creativity and visual representation to the documents created by each application. Improved formatting, collaboration and publishing tools will enable users to make better use of pictures and visual effects. YouTube and Flash videos can be customized and inserted directly into PowerPoint 2010. When collaborating on a project, multiple people will be able to view and edit the document at the same time. If users are having trouble figuring out when everyone is available for a meeting, Outlook 2010 can automatically compare the Outlook schedules of attendees and suggest an optimal time. Also, to keep pace with technological advances in mobile devices, Office 2010 documents are designed to better operate on smart phones enabling users to access documents on the go. These are just a few of the new features available with Microsoft Office 2010. Users can learn about Office 2010 and its news features via SkillPort at https://www.my.af.mil/skillportcbtprod4/skillportfe/custom/login/usaf/seamlesslogin.action. After logging on with a common access card, follow the links to "Desktop Certification," "Microsoft," and finally "Microsoft Office Specialist on Microsoft Office 2010." Users can then learn each aspect of Office 2010. Office 2010 is also available to Offutt members through the Microsoft Home Use Program, or HUP, for about $10. The program enables work force members to complete work at home which requires formatting in the same manner as the software resident on the work computer. The HUP can be accessed at http://hup.microsoft.com/ and by entering "F08C39B7EA" as the program code.