"Unable to start Office" or ”Office is busy” error message
Applies To: Office 365, Office 2016, Office 2013
If you get an error message that says something like
the below message we’re trying to update, repair, or uninstall Office.
Office is busy. We're sorry,
can't be used right now because Office is busy. We're either updating or helping you add or remove some programs.
or
Unable to start Office. We couldn't open Office because we're updating, adding, or removing programs.
So what you can do?
If you get one of these errors and cannot open Office, you can try one of the following in this order:
1.Wait a few minutes and then try opening an Office application
2.Restart your computer and then try opening the application again.... (because you haven't already thought of that)
3.Use this easy fix tool to completely uninstall Office. After your uninstall is complete, reinstall Office.
a.Click this easy fix button to uninstall Office.
b.Select your browser from the drop-down list to see how to save and then launch the file.
c.To reinstall Office, see Download and install or reinstall Office on your PC or Mac and follow the steps for your Office plan.
This is particularly bad if using a terminal server on the more expensive Office 365 E3 and E5 deals - how do we stop these updates in the first place?
http://www.intowindows.com/how-to-disable-office-20162013-updates-also-office-365/
