Many people find email is useful for sending updates and attachments to friends and colleagues but those wanting more functions should consider using Microsoft Outlook. This programme is often used for creating messages but it boasts a host of other features that can help you organise your business appointments and share important data securely. One of the main advantages to using MS Outlook is that a vast amount of information can be accessed in just one place.

As you open the programme you will be greeted with an easy-to-navigate interface where you can click on a calendar to see your tasks that are lined-up for the day or simply send messages. Email is straightforward to compose and the process is streamlined by the search function. This allows you to search MS Outlook for keywords, which may help you to locate messages and files stored in the programme.

Locating information can also be streamlined with MS Office Outlook 2007 Colour Categories. You are free to apply different colours to your files in order to divide them into appropriate categories. You can further cut the time spent on composing emails by taking advantage of the Attachment Preview. This gives you a pictorial snapshot of files you want to upload so you can decide which ones are the most appropriate, saving you the need to click on each one.

Security is a major feature of the software and MS Outlook is engineered to protect you from possible phishing scams that can infect your computer. A robust junk mail filter also effectively helps to keep your inbox clear from unwanted messages.

Another feature is the Email Postmark, which ensures that files sent from your account are likely to be recognised as genuine messages rather than mistaken for spam or junk. If you are on the move you can still take advantage of the programme's message sending abilities via Outlook Mobile Service. This ensures you can keep in touch by sending text messages via your mobile phone from your account. In addition, you are able to forward files with attachments and other information such as contact addresses to recipients.

To keep you well-organised this service also provides for text message reminders to be transmitted to your mobile regarding important arrangements, so you can be sure to never miss an appointment.

The software can act as your very own virtual personal assistant as it is possible to plan your schedule, add contacts and much more. In order to keep on top of tasks, MS Outlook presents you with a to-do bar that is linked to your calendar. The bar offers a snapshot of upcoming events so you can be confident that your days are as organised as possible. To further help you plan your time, the programme allows you to publish your calendars online so colleagues are also aware of your schedule.

Sharing information in your MS Outlook account is much easier thanks to Windows SharePoint Services. This server is great for individuals and businesses who wish to upload data detailing contacts, files and calendars. Colleagues can access the server in order to browse files that you can adjust and change via MS Outlook.

This programme is an effective all-round communication tool that can help you to organise your business affairs and those wishing to learn more may like to attend training courses regarding Ms Outlook to expand their knowledge on this versatile product.