Limitations of using Microsoft OneNote

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While OneNote comes with a ton of features for taking quick notes and organizing this information, it is not without its flaws. Below are some of the most common challenges and limitations you can expect when using OneNote:

Limited formatting options : While OneNote is certainly versatile in capturing information, it leaves a lot to be desired on the formatting front—especially when compared to its counterparts like Word. While this need is a reflection of your preferred method of note-taking, the lack of advanced formatting options could reduce engagement levels.
Restricted offline access – OneNote requires a constant internet connection to sync across devices. If you vp r&d email lists don't have an internet connection, you may experience issues or hiccups when taking notes during meetings or traveling.
Hierarchical Breakdown : The notebook, section, and page format works best if you have basic requirements. When working on complex or large-scale projects, you may find that this format becomes cumbersome and opaque when it comes to locating information.
Basic Features and Functions : While OneNote allows users to collaborate or create tasks, the capabilities of these features are very restricted. The difference becomes even more apparent when compared to platforms that can offer advanced functionalities such as AI tools for note-taking in meetings, task management and tracking, workflow automation, etc.
Spotty search functionality : While OneNote's search feature is quite handy, you may encounter some glitches when working with handwritten notes, images, and other media. This limits your ability to retrieve critical information and make it accessible.
Compatibility Issues : While OneNote integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft Office tools, its interoperability with other third-party software applications and systems is very restricted. This can make it difficult to share data or integrate with other industry-specific applications.
Limited export options : Limited export options can be frustrating for users who need to share their notes in specific formats or with those who don't use OneNote. At best, you can export OneNote notebooks as PDF or Word documents, but even then, you may have to sacrifice the look and feel of the final results.
No version history : Lack of version control is one of the biggest shortcomings of Microsoft OneNote. OneNote does not have any built-in tool to control the versions of notebooks, especially when they are shared through Sharepoint. This can be a major setback for a collaborative setup like the following project documentation where multiple people edit the same notebooks simultaneously.
Pro Tip: Looking for a note-taking tool that better suits your needs? Check out our list of the 17 best OneNote alternatives – with free and paid options to help you find the one that best suits your needs.