The better place to start: OneNote Desktop or OneNote Online?
If you're new to the tool, where is the best place to learn?
OneNote has struggled for years with the problem of inconsistent features across versions. OneNote for Desktop (2016) is known for the most complete set of capabilities but is also limited to the Windows platform for use. OneNote Online works across browsers but it’s feature set is more limited causing consternation for long term users of the tool.
What do you do when you have a potential new user? Which one do you introduce them to using as part of their initial learning curve? My answer to this may be a bit controversial. I recommend…OneNote Online.
Now hear me out there are some specific reasons for this. One, the online tool has a simpler user interface and experience as compared to OneNote Desktop. Finding features (if you’re not used to them being somewhere else) comes easily enough. The core 70% to 80% of features you will initially use are available on both versions, but the online version is available on more platforms. Finally, and this may be the most controversial, the Online tool has the most direct path to the future of OneNote.
Microsoft has clearly said they will continue to add features to the Desktop application, but as anyone who has done software development can tell you, it is far easier to deploy new features through a browser based application than it is through a desktop one. This is why we’re seeing Loop functionality coming available in OneNote Online before we’re seeing support on the Desktop.
If you have someone new to the world of OneNote, especially if they have a 365 account, introduce them to OneNote Online to get started. Once they’ve mastered it they can explore the power that is Desktop but they may find that isn’t necessary for them after all.