My last blog entry mentioned about bible works and Logos – both are bible software program meant for novice as well as experts. Doubtless I leave none guessing what my preference was (or did I ?)Now comes the word processing software. Most people uses Word, whereas a smaller portion (at least in Singapore) uses WordPerfect. In the mid-eighties WordPerfect was THE software used. However, late-eighties on, Microsoft was aggressive in its marketing and eventually the WP was replaced. It would be unusual for shopkeeper or users to say, “huh, you’re still using that obsolete program?” They would be surprised that WP is still in business today and churning out newer versions regularly.
Here in Singapore, it’s not easy to purchase WP. Even the megaspore Challenger in IT Mall doesn’t always carry it. Incidentally it’s the only place to stock such amongst its outlets. if they don’t have it then that’s it. Order directly from the US!
Currently I have both programs on my laptop and PC. This is for pragmatic reason obviously. My favorite is still WordPerfect because of its intuitiveness. Word bugs me tremendously when it comes features like outlines. Even simple Roman numeral outline can be a pain. It is stupid (to be kind). I have had many experiences whereby an outline can suddenly becomes many sub-points because I had hit some key accidentally. With WordPerfect, using outlines have been a breeze. Its reveal code is my favorite because it allows me to see what and where those enhancement features are. I could drag and drop it away if I don’t want those anymore. It helps me to troubleshoot my problem (this was especially so during the DOS era).
Writing papers with WordPerfect with its readily useable templates were blessings. I would be pounding my laptop had it been Word. Any anomaly in setup can be quickly diagnosed and resolved through reveal code. Several of my classmates were saved by the bell because I helped them through the reveal code to tidy up and beautify their papers. Of course it would have been wonderful if they had paid me for the services rendered too! But of course, students aren’t rich (unless your father owns John Deere or Macy’s). Even then, a cup of coffee would have been nice 
I’ll continue to use WP extensively until one day Word improves its outline features. Until then, its WordPerfect and truly as its name implies. Perfecto!
