Corel Lightning syncs notes on PC and web

Beta software Lightning from Corel shows promise for note-takers

Corel is taking a new angle on hosted desktop software with a disk-based note-taking application that can be linked to online storage and other services.

Called Lightning, the program is currently available in beta for free download. Corel positions the tool as a way for consumers and businesses to quickly create, view and print documents.

IT Week downloaded the beta and found Lightning a useful way to compile and store notes. The beta connects to the Joyent online storage site, allowing files to be safely stored alongside calendar, email, collaboration and other tools.

Word, WordPerfect and PDF files can be viewed and snapshot images of files captured and distributed. Files can also be stored locally, sent by email or imported into WordPerfect Office.

At first sight, Lightning appears a powerful tool for users struggling to cope with busy workloads but plenty of other options exist both online and in pure offline form, most notably in Google’s Docs & Spreadsheets. However, for WordPerfect loyalists in legal, small office and other sectors, Lightning is worth looking into.

Corel did not have UK pricing or availability immediately available.