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We know it can be difficult trying to decide if a piece of software is right for your business. That's why you can now download or order trial versions of Microsoft's most popular software. See below for details.

We've also produced a number of guides to help your business get the most out of your IT. Our How To... guides show you how to do particular things with your PC - like creating a website or brochure. The British Chambers of Commerce Guides cover topics such as IT security in-depth, as well as showing you how to make savings in other areas of business - for example, by cutting down on red tape.

Please follow the links below to download trial software.

Trial Software

One of the best ways to see if a piece of software is right for you is to try it. That's why Microsoft makes trial versions of its most popular software available for free. You can download a copy, then test it out at your leisure. If you don't like it, then don't buy it.

Office 2007 Small Business Edition - ()
The latest edition of this office suite includes Word, Excel, Publisher and Outlook with Business Contact Manager.

Digital Image Starter Edition - (110MB)
Powerful tools to perfect your photos. Contains most features of the full version.

Making IT work for you

We've produced this guide to show you how effective use of technology can help your business. It'll also show you how to make sure you buy the right kit at the right time, so everything works together.

Making IT work for you - (1,171KB)
A plain-language explanation of what you can do with a computer system, network and server.

How To Guides

We've produced these guides to help you get the best out of Microsoft software. They'll help you carry out common business tasks efficiently. You can download each individually below.

1. Connect with Your Customers - (447KB)
Reach customers cost effectively and track your customer relationships

2. Make Sense of Your Financial Data - (383KB)
Use spreadsheets to interpret and analyse your financial data

3. Create a Website - (372KB)
Put together a professional website with FrontPage 2003

4. Create Brochures and Flyers - (357KB)
Grab your customers' attention with eyecatching brochures and leaflets

5. Create and Mail a Newsletter - (373KB)
Stay in your customers' minds; send them regular information, news and offers

6. Be Secure With Wireless - (1477KB)
Keep your Wi-Fi network secure and safe from prying eyes.

7.Secure Your Business - (370KB)
Keep your IT system safe from hackers and free of other nasties

8. Do More with Windows XP - (627KB)
Make the most of Microsoft's most advanced operating system yet

9. Do More with Outlook - (765KB)
Manage your appointments, email, contacts, to-do list and more...

10. Protect Your Data - (676KB)
Business data is one of your most valuable assets. Keep it safe

BCC Guides

Microsoft and the British Chambers of Commerce have jointly produced these straight talking guides that will show you how business technology can help your company. Packed with ideas and advice, you can download each individually.

Overcoming Bureaucracy and Regulation - (754KB)
Don't let your business get caught up in red tape, cut through it and focus on what really matters.

Growing Business Productivity with IT - (2,390KB)
How IT can help you achieve more at the critical points in business.

IT Security - (1,690KB)
Essential information about keeping your IT - and the information it holds - safe and secure.

Simplifying Technology for Business - (1,337KB)
Read about the IT essentials for a small company.

Successful Retailing - (2,979KB)
How your company can become a successful retailer.

Direct Marketing - (2,202KB)
A complete guide to direct marketing: why your business should consider it, and how to run a campaign. Produced with Experian.

If you want to find out how to do more with Microsoft software, Microsoft Small Business+ offers free online training. You can learn what you want, when you want to. Try it now >>