What can you use the application for?
ThinkFree Show is a web-based PowerPoint substitute. ThinkFree has both a desktop and an online version. We review the online version, which has two modes of editing. The Quick Edit works without any plugins but has reduced functionality. The Power Edit mode requires the Java Runtime Environment to be installed and is similar to Microsoft PowerPoint. We review the program in Quick Edit mode.
What is the history and popularity of the application?
ThinkFree has been around the online office market for years. In 2003 the Korean software company Haansoft took a majority stake in the business. But so far, they have less users than competing products. As of 2008 the company is undergoing a reorganization of some sort.
What are the differences to other applications?
The difference to other online office applications is the options you get with ThinkFree. You get two online versions and the option to upgrade to a desktop version. But these options make the product as a whole more confusing. For the rest the product looks solid and sharing your presentation with other people is as easy as it should be.
How does the application look and feel to use?
When creating a new presentation your can select between nine different layouts. By default, the presentations are created in a PowerPoint compatible format (.ppt). But these can only be edited with in the Quick Edit mode after converting them to html.
How does the registration process work?
Registration requires your name, an email address and a password. If you don't want to receive the newsletter you need to click two checkboxes. After you confirm your email address you are taken to your virtual office.
What does it cost to use the application?
The web-based version is free. When you upgrade to the desktop version there is a one time fee of 49.95 US dollar.
Who would you recommend the application to?
ThinkFree is attractive when you want to have the option to upgrade to a desktop version that is very similar to PowerPoint. But as a pure web-based presentation application, there are better alternatives. ThinkFree is confusing and restricting because of the different editing modes.
