Advance warning: This was written by a copywriter (probably obvious by the title). But this copywriter has seen his worlds collide, as countless designer co-workers approach him for help with converting designs into Microsoft-friendly formats. This is his story…(Cue the Law & Order sound.)

Microsoft Word. It’s the program you love to hate, but it’s also one you can’t live without. Despite the growth of OpenOffice and other would-be Word-killers, the Microsoft Office staple is still the standard in word processing applications.

But it’s also useful as a layout program. (Yes, I said it.) Here’s why…

Staffs are smaller. Budgets are tighter. Speed is of the essence. We’re finding a lot more clients are looking for Word templates they can use to send out spot communications, something still branded but easy to implement themselves.

With digital breakthroughs and shrinking budgets, you just don’t see businesses keeping a lot of basestock around anymore. It’s simply faster, easier and cheaper to shoot an email with a PDF attachment than it is to print out on a color copier and physically mail it.

You’re also not going to find very many offices (without in-house designers) with people who are proficient in layout programs and willing to invest in Adobe Creative Suite. What they do know how to use, however, is Microsoft Word.

With just a little training, you can have clients efficiently using Word templates in no time, without sacrificing the brand standards you worked to put in place. You can protect placeholder graphics in the header and footer. You can set up styles to create consistency with headlines, subheads, pull quotes and body copy. You can adjust everything from margins to leading to character spacing. Ultimately, you can make your clients happier by making your layout design portable.

Sure, you wouldn’t want to use Microsoft Word for a catalog or annual report. But for repeat communication vehicles – such as letterhead, memos or even brief newsletters – Word will do.

Sometimes you have to hand over the keys. Microsoft Word templates are a way to satisfy your client’s needs and still keep your integrity intact.

Designers, you can actually benefit from spending a little quality time with Microsoft Word. It may feel dirty at first, but it will be worth it. You’ll be more marketable within the industry and more useful to your clients.

Feel free to share your (relatively clean) comments or experiences with Word. Copywriters love to read.