Free Software Suits Self-Employed Workers

New office software options are emerging as small businesses look to trim costs.

Make no mistake, Microsoft(MSFT Quote) and the small businesses that use its products are facing a tipping point. Between the flop that's Windows Vista and unprecedented competition for office software, the company is close to becoming a big brand in search of a market. Google(GOOG Quote) isn't the only company causing pain for Steve Ballmer and crew; now even small firms are threatening Microsoft's dominance.

Take scrappy Zoho, a unit of AdventNet. The Pleasanton, Calif.-based company recently introduced a new version of its word-processing tool, Zoho Writer 2.0. The Web-based product is free for individuals. The upgraded software organizes functions with user-friendly tabs. There are also idiot-proof invite features for document sharing and options for blog and wiki publishing. I have been testing the product in my office and it's worth considering if you're contemplating life after Microsoft. ...