Q: Microsoft & Apple help

Quick Office Pro HD will allow you to create and do simple edits of Office  items on an iOS device.  You can move files in and out of it via iTunes and a USB connection to a computer. 

There are lots of ways of moving files.  USB to iPad supports only "Camera" files. 

A simple and popular way to copy files.

http://wiki.dropbox.com

Using iTures to transfer files:

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT4094?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US

More complex ways.

Look in the app store for accessing Windows File servers.

for example:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/filebrowser-access-files-on/id364738545?mt=8

Configure WebDave on your server.

This thread has good info.

https://discussions.apple.com/thread/3708341?tstart=0

How to transfer files from your iPad to your PC with iPad to Computer Transfer

http://www.iphone-mac.com/how-to-transfer-and-sync-contents-from-ipad-to-pc.html

More ways to transfer files and access Word documents:

https://discussions.apple.com/thread/4044866?tstart=0

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For syncing pc or mac folders to iPad applications.

"Using SugarSync, you simply designate folders that you want to “sync” to the cloud and it keeps everything in sync anytime you make changes.  This is the way cloud storage should be done and especially if you are using your iPad for buisness or for school."

http://www.tcgeeks.com/best-ipad-cloud-sync-app/

Doug says:

"This can be done with Dropbox as well using one of the many Dropbox addons…"

http://wiki.dropbox.com/DropboxAddons

The only potential downside is that so many apps for the iPhone/iPad come with Dropbox sync built in which makes it extremely convenient.