[comp.text] UNIX WP packages ?

kiely@lownlab.UUCP (01/28/87)

I am interested in installing a WYSIWYG word processing package
on an number of UNIX systems.  I though it would be a good idea
to use something that was in wide use so there would be people who
know how to use it.  I called Kelly temporary service to see what
word processing packages they support and they gave me this list
of IBM-PC packages:

	Microsoft Word
	DisplayWrite II
	Multimate
	Samna
	PFSwrite
	MicroPro
	PCWriter (IBM)
	Spellbinder
	Volkswriter
	EZWriter II
	Word Perfect

Are any of these packages available to run on UNIX systems?
-- 
 
NAME:     James P. Kiely                USPS:   Kiely Laboratories
USENET:   ...!harvard!lownlab!kiely             P.O. Box 624
PHONE:    +1 617 782 4136                       Allston, MA 02134-0624

foster@seismo.UUCP (01/30/87)

I understand that WordPerfect is in the process of being ported to
everybody's favorite operating system.  It is the favorite of many of
the IBM PC users of my acquaintance.  

Most of the PC word processors talk to the hardware or to the ROM BIOS
and converting them to a multi-terminal environment would not be
trivial.  There are several "Shareware" (guilt-ware?) and public domain
word processing programs that are distributed with source if you want
to go it yourself.  

Another consideration is that most of these programs do not follow Unix
conventions in their file formats (e.g. end lines with nothing and end
paragraphs with line ends).  This would probably present difficulties
if your users wanted to switch back and forth between the "word
processor" and a Unix utility.

I am familiar with most of the programs mentioned in your list and will 
answer questions on them by mail if you wish.

Good luck,
Glen Foster