MarinerPak, presented by Mariner Software, is an easy to use alternative to its more cluttered counterpoints. This Mac office software is meant to appeal to those who want a more straightforward approach to using office tools on your Mac.
MarinerPak is a combination of the two basic utilities: Write and Calc. When you open Write or Calc, it looks similar to AppleWorks or other older Mac utilities. Through and through, Mariner Software are die-hard Mac users and want their software to be understood and used like Mac software, not as PC software parading as such. Today, the walls separating a Mac and a PC are a little lower than they once were, but Mariner wants you to know you are using tried and true Mac software, from the toolbar and the buttons, to the blue and gray color scheme reminiscent of earlier Macs.
These two Mac office programs come with all the basic functions that appear in the other software options. Mariner Software chose to strip away features that can anticipate and autocorrect the user's whims. Some may recoil in horror when they realize they will have to press the shift key when typing a singular I. Others who want a program that does what it’s told will be very pleased, without worrying about the software adding formatting changes on its own. When this program says it has the basics, it means the basics. Don’t expect a “word art” wizard or an “insert chart” functionality. The same can be said for the Calc program.
However, to make up for the lack of functions, MarinerPak wants to make sure you know this program will open and support documents from Microsoft Office for Mac and even PC. Once again, these days the walls are a little lower between Mac and PC, but Mariner Software has you covered regardless. The cherry on top of this little program is a very reasonable price. The two programs bundled together are a fraction of the price of what you would pay for the more comprehensive suites. This Mac office software is for those who want to save a penny or two.
All over the website, Mariner Software wants you to know these two programs will support files from Microsoft Office, regardless of the platform. This is great. Also, these documents can be exported as rich text files which are compatible with Word and PDF readers.
Since Apple didn’t develop this program directly, the integration suffers. It won’t sync or update anything. Licensed Mac developers made it, but they either chose not to integrate outside functionality, or couldn’t. But MarinerPak isn’t meant to cycle through your music collection and print the lyrics to your ringtone. It is here to manage the written word and numbers.
These programs are a breeze. There isn’t a lot to get tripped up on, but still, using these programs is easy and intuitive. Everything is laid out clearly either through the toolbars or drop down options.
Like any good Mac software, this program comes with ample support. Each program has comprehensive help options built right into the software. If you turn to the website the options multiply. You can ask for help through email, iChat, or the forum. You can submit ideas for future updates, search down a lost serial number, or browse the ample knowledge base section. Mariner Software has you covered, should you run into a corner.
MarinerPak doesn’t pack a punch. Don’t let this deter you however. If you have ever found yourself cursing the office software you’re using because it is trying to do too much for you, you might want to consider this option. It's easy to use and has a strong support network for its users. The prices are all very reasonable too, taking into account those who don’t want to spend money on features they won’t use. If you need more from your office software, try iWork or Microsoft Office for Mac.
