Compelling content is a good way to make documents interesting and the way its packaged also helps to keep the attention of readers.

Much time is usually spent creating files that are packed with necessary information that you need to pass on to your colleagues or customers. Microsoft (MS) Word is a popular programme that features a range of functions to assist you in doing this. An integrated dictionary and thesaurus help to give your files the professional edge and keep mistakes and spelling errors to a minimum.

In order to inject some extra pizazz into your documents, you might want to take a look at all the tools included in Word that alter the way the text can look. Companies are aware of the importance of creating and maintaining their brand. Logos are linked to the ethos that forms the skeleton of your firm and making them instantly recognisable is a good way to attract attention to your organisation.

If you're creating Word documents to be passed around at important meetings, or shown via monitors to potential clients, then it's likely you'll want to brand them correctly. With Word you're able to use different themes that standardise the way your text appears, meaning you're free to keep it in-line with other branded content. Functions see you applying the same fonts, colours and formatting throughout your files, so they fit with your company's themes.

If branding is still in its early stages then you may want to experiment with the text formatting options available via this product. Emphasis and lots of different effects can be added to areas you're keen to highlight. Headlines can have subtle shadows added to words for example, or you might prefer adding reflections.

Whether you choose to adopt these features or keep your text more simple, it's a good idea to have similar effects repeated throughout your files to maintain the correct branding. As well as making text easier on the eye, you are also free to create bright, colourful diagrams using just Word. If you're ever lead a presentation or given out handouts then you'll know that one of the main things that put listeners off is reading through lots of text.

At times lots of copy will be needed but if you're able to cut down the amount of text - while still transmitting your message - then it's recommended. Replacing words with diagrams is simple via Word 2010, as this latest release sees you transforming sentences into bulleted lists within seconds. There are a range of other features available via SmartArt Graphics that gives you the chance to create more complex diagrams than bulleted lists.

For example, you may want to cut some text explaining recent sales figures and replace it with a chart for added impact. If you're keen to go one step further to visually enhance your documents then you might want to experiment with the picture editing tools integrated into Word 2010. When computer programmes first hit the market they were often compartmentalised, in that you'd need to buy separate word processing and photo editing programmes.

Now firms are integrating more functions into these products, meaning there is a greater crossover between them. This is true of Word 2010, which allows you to make some changes to images without the need for specialised programmes. So if your photos require cropping or correction for example, then you are able to do this from one platform.