I don't use AppleWork, but I do use Microsoft Office on the Mac. I have both Mac and PC computers, but I use Mac the most. I often use Microsoft Office on the Mac, it's pretty well-designed if you ask me.
Many files will work just fine with Mac applications. Of course, it depends on what applications you use, but I would say most will work as long you have the applications that work with such formats.
Document files work just fine if transfered either way.
