How to install the SimpleAI Word Add-In

Installing the SimpleAI Word Add-In gives you direct access to Standard playbooks, AI-powered suggestions, and other smart tools to help you review legal documents faster and with more confidence — all without leaving Word.

To get the best experience (especially for redlining), we recommend you install the Add-in in your desktop Word application. While the Word online experience will also work, the redlining experience is more limited.

✅ Recommended Installation: From the Word Add-In Store

If you're already signed in to Microsoft Word with your Microsoft account, this is the easiest way to install the Add-In. Detailed instructions including screenshots available here.

Steps:

  1. Open Microsoft Word
  2. Click “Add-ins” in the top menu
  3. Select “More Add-ins”
  4. In the modal that appears, search for “SimpleDocs”
  5. Click Add next to the SimpleAI Add-In

You’re done! The Add-In will now appear in your Word ribbon.

💡 Note: This method works best with Microsoft 365 Word or Word 2021, and if your Microsoft account allows store access.


🧰 First Alternate Installation: Using our Installer Application (desktop)

We have created a preliminary installer you can use that will install the Word Add-in locally. This is a good option in case your corporate environment does not allow installs through Microsoft Appsource.

Installers for download

  1. Windows Installer
    1. As the file is still preliminary, we haven't signed it digitally yet. So if you see a "Windows protected your PC" warning when installing our Word add-in sideloader, don't worry - this is normal and the software is safe to install.
      1. Why does this happen? Windows shows this warning for new software that hasn't been digitally signed yet. Our sideloader is safe - it's a development tool that helps you test Word add-ins. We will finalize the file for public distribution soon.
      2. To continue with installation:
        1. Click "More info" on the warning screen
        2. Click "Run anyway" button that appears
        3. The installer will continue normally
    2. Alternative if "Run anyway" doesn't appear:
      1. Right-click the installer file
      2. Select "Properties"
      3. Check "Unblock" at the bottom
      4. Click "OK" and try running againIf you continue having issues, please reply to this email and we'll help you get set up.
    3. Once the installer has opened: Click on the green install button which will install the Add-in. 
    4. Once the installer has run: If Word was already open, close it and re-open it. You should now see the SimpleDocs add-in when opening up Add-ins in the Ribbon.


  2. Mac OS Installer:
    1. As the file is still preliminary, we haven't signed it digitally yet. So if you see a "Apple could not verify “SimpleAI Installer” is free of malware that may harm your Mac or compromise your privacy" warning when installing our Word add-in sideloader. Don't worry - this is normal and the software is safe to install.
      1. Why does this happen? Apple shows this warning for new software that hasn't been digitally signed yet. Our sideloader is safe - it's a development tool that helps you test Word add-ins. We will finalize the file for public distribution soon.
      2. To continue with installation:
        1. Try opening the installer normally (double-click).
        2. When you see the warning, don’t click OK yet—just close the dialog.
        3. Go to  → System SettingsPrivacy & Security.
        4. Scroll down; under Security, you should now see “‘SimpleAI Installer’ was blocked because it is not from an identified developer” with an Open Anyway button.
        5. Click Open Anyway, then confirm in the next popup. It should now run.
        6. Once the installer has opened: Click on the green install button which will install the Add-in. 
        7. Once the installer has run: If Word was already open, close it and re-open it. You should now see the SimpleDocs add-in when opening up Add-ins in the Ribbon.

💾 Second Alternate Installation: Using the Manifest File (online)

If you’re unable to use the Add-In store (e.g., due to corporate settings or login issues), you can install the Add-In manually using the manifest file.

👉 Download the manifest file

  1. Use the link above to save the manifest file to your desktop.
  2. Visit office.com and log in with your Microsoft account.
  3. Open a new Word document
  4. Install the Add-In
    • Click “Add-ins” in the top menu
    • Select “More Add-ins”
    • In the modal, go to the “MY ADD-INS” tab
    • Open the dropdown that says “Manage My Add-ins”
    • Select “Upload My Add-in”
  1. Upload the manifest file

All done! - The SimpleAI Add-In should now appear in your Word ribbon.

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