Novell released files translator Open XML for package OpenOffice

9th March 2007

Novell has released a special plug-in, which allows making conversion of documents in the format Open XML into files of the format Open Document (ODF), and opening them in a text editor, included into the office package OpenOffice. Files format Open XML is used by default in the new office package 2007 Microsoft Office System, which came to the market on Jan. 30. The fact that Novell is planning to realize the support of format Open XML in their own version of a competing package OpenOffice, became known at the end of last year. It was assumed that, in January Novell will release a translator of text documents. However, the development of the project delayed and as a result it appeared at the Novell site a month late. Brian Jones, manager of Microsoft Office developers group, called a translator Novell a small victory. According to Jones, quoted by PC World, one can say with certainty now that the war or formats is over, and all the sides have won. Later on similar plug-ins must be released to convert spreadsheets and presentations. Meanwhile, last week in California a bill was proposed according to which all state institutions should use the file format ODF. In theory, such a law will reduce dependence of governmental organizations on some single company.