Outlook versus Outlook Express - Which solution is right for you?

I've been asked a few times in the last couple weeks about the differences and benefits of running Microsoft outlook vs. Microsoft Outlook express so I've decided to compile my answers here for others to review. Firstly, the biggest difference is cost and licensing, Microsoft Outlook Express is FREE, it's part of Microsoft Windows (Windows 95, 98, ME, 2000 and XP, In Windows Vista it's called Windows Mail) Microsoft Outlook comes as part of the Microsoft Office Suite of programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook most often and therefore is included in the cost of Microsoft Office.

So what if you have BOTH? Which one should you use? Good question, Microsoft has an extensive article below that will answer your questions in detail but the simplest way for me to summarize the article is to say that Microsoft Outlook is the full blown all the bells and whistles version where as the Express version (Outlook Express) is the light version, now Express might imply that it's faster somehow but that's not the case, it's just simpler, no calendar, limited contact management, no to-do lists, journal entry function or note taking facilities, again, very limited.

The full Microsoft explanation can be found here: Outlook versus Outlook Express - Outlook - Microsoft Office Online

If you're already using or have decided to move to Microsoft Outlook be sure to look into the FREE add-on for Microsoft Outlook 2003 called Business Contact manager aimed directly at managing business contacts, again all the details on the Microsoft Website here: Microsoft Outlook 2003 Business Contact Manager Add-on

To summarize, if you're looking to perform Business Contact Management or Email management for your business needs Outlook is your answer, if you're just looking for simple straightforward email only for home use, Outlook Express will work for you.

Business contact and information management is a crucial part of small business management and Microsoft Outlook 2003 with business contact Manager makes much of this process not only streamlined but actually helpful to small business owners, if you're interested in getting the most of your small business contact manager software ask about our small business software training!